Notch Archives

Winsage

August 13, 2025

Microsoft Teams RCE Vulnerability Let Attackers Read, Write and Delete Messages

Microsoft has identified a critical remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability in its Teams software, designated as CVE-2025-53783, during the August 2025 Patch Tuesday updates. This heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability allows unauthorized attackers to manipulate user messages and data through network code execution. It has a CVSS 3.1 score of 7.5, categorized as “Important.” Exploitation requires user interaction, such as clicking a malicious link or opening a specially crafted file. Microsoft has issued a fix and recommends users implement the latest security updates. There have been no public disclosures or active exploitation of this vulnerability, and its likelihood of exploitation is assessed as “Less Likely.” The vulnerability is part of a broader update addressing 107 flaws, including a zero-day vulnerability in Windows Kerberos. Security experts advise organizations using Microsoft Teams to prioritize the August 2025 security updates due to the serious risk of data compromise.

AppWizard

August 9, 2025

The most honest survival game I’ve ever played is this unemployment simulator

Unemployment Simulator 2018 is a survival game that focuses on the challenges of modern life, set in a modest apartment rather than a wilderness. Players collect empty beer cans and craft application letters, reflecting the realities of job hunting. The game features various minigames that highlight struggles in the job market, infused with dark humor. It includes elements of psychological depth, such as pressing a key to cry and experiencing lucid dreams. The developer, Samuel Lehikoinen, claims the game is based on real events, capturing the essence of contemporary struggles with a mix of silliness and sincerity. A free demo is available for players interested in this unique gaming experience.

BetaBeacon

July 22, 2025

One of the greatest iPhone and Android game controllers just arrived in the UK

Backbone Pro Controller is now available in the UK for £169.99.

AppWizard

July 12, 2025

The evolution of Android: Decades of transformation

Android was acquired by Google in 2005, marking a significant turning point for the platform. It evolved from an open-source operating system that encouraged diverse hardware options to a dominant mobile OS, adapting to consumer demands for larger screens and advanced features. Between 2018 and 2020, manufacturers began adopting edge-to-edge displays, leading to innovations like the "notch" and "punch-hole" designs. From 2021 onward, foldable phones emerged, with devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip redefining the smartphone form factor. Google introduced optimizations for large screens and improved multitasking capabilities to accommodate these changes.

AppWizard

July 12, 2025

Minecraft Creator Says That If Buying a Game Is Not a Purchase, Then Pirating It Is Not Theft

Markus Persson, known as Notch, has been a controversial figure in the gaming community for his views on piracy. In 2012, he suggested that a Minecraft fan should pirate the game if they couldn't afford it, stating that if they liked it later, they could buy it. He argued at the 2011 Game Developers Conference that piracy should not be considered theft, as it does not remove the original copy from circulation. Recently, he commented on the Stop Killing Games initiative, which seeks to prevent game developers from permanently shutting down games, noting that if buying a game is not a purchase, then pirating it is not theft. He also reminisced about older games that allowed players to host their own servers. Earlier this year, he gauged interest in a potential return to game development, hinting at a spiritual successor to Minecraft.

AppWizard

July 10, 2025

Minecraft Creator Weighs in on Stop Killing Games Initiative

Notch, the creator of Minecraft, has expressed support for the Stop Killing Games movement, which advocates for gamers' rights to access online and live-service games they have purchased. He highlighted concerns about the current state of digital gaming, where games are often sold as licenses rather than outright ownership. Steam has introduced a warning label on purchases to clarify that users are acquiring a license, which reflects limitations on gamers' control over their purchases. The Stop Killing Games movement aims to ensure guaranteed access to digital games even after official support ends and has gained over 1.2 million signatures in the EU. While Notch supports the movement, he chose not to sign the petition to avoid aiding AAA studios, preferring to compete with better terms for users. He advocates for studios to relinquish control over servers, shifting power dynamics in favor of the gaming community. If successful in the EU, the initiative could inspire similar legislative changes elsewhere.

Tech Optimizer

July 8, 2025

I’m on the hunt for the best Prime Day antivirus deals – and these are 7+ of the biggest discounts I’ve found

Amazon Prime Day runs from July 8 to July 11, offering discounts on various products, including antivirus software from providers like Norton, Bitdefender, and Webroot. Deals are available for shoppers in the US and the UK.

Tech Optimizer

July 1, 2025

Avast or Bitdefender? The Free Antivirus Battle You Need to Know About

Avast and Bitdefender are prominent cybersecurity firms known for their high-quality free antivirus solutions. Bitdefender: - Excellent protection in the free version. - Simple installation and use. - Lightweight and fast performance. - Provides both definition-based and behavioral protection. - Protects against viruses, spyware, ransomware, Trojans, and phishing. - Requires users to create a free account before installation. - Includes anti-phishing and anti-fraud features. - Offers yearly version releases and continual updates. Avast: - Excellent free protection. - High-quality protection against various threats. - Clean interface with smooth performance. - Provides definition-based and behavioral protection. - Protects against viruses, spyware, ransomware, Trojans, and phishing. - Installation is quick and unobtrusive. - Offers additional features like a password vault and Wi-Fi protection. - Provides yearly version releases and continual updates. Both antivirus solutions are compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, and they do not rely on static versions, ensuring continuous enhancements and current virus definitions.

AppWizard

June 28, 2025

13 years ago, Mojang canceled its Lego Minecraft game amid frustrations with the toy company’s brand restrictions – now the original prototype has been found and preserved online

In 2012, Mojang began developing a Lego-themed spin-off of Minecraft called Brickcraft, which was ultimately canceled due to Lego's brand restrictions. Recently, a version of Brickcraft from June 28, 2012, was discovered and made available to players by Omniarchive. The project faced significant challenges, including disagreements over design elements, such as the inclusion of scratches on Lego bricks, which Lego opposed. Markus "Notch" Persson decided to halt the project due to frustrations with Lego's rules. Brickcraft was intended to feature expansive biomes and engaging gameplay similar to Minecraft, but it was never completed.

BetaBeacon

June 28, 2025

Why I keep coming back to this clamshell retro gaming handheld

Clamshell handheld gaming devices like the Anbernic RG34XXSP have become popular due to their unique form factor and affordable prices. These devices run on custom builds of Linux and offer a variety of games up to N64 and Dreamcast. The RG34XXSP features dual sticks for better control and is portable enough to be carried in a pocket without the need for a case or screen protector. These retro handhelds are easy to recommend due to their low cost and variety of form factors.