Online Privacy Archives

AppWizard

June 21, 2025

Understanding Android 14 Privacy Changes: Key Insights

The introduction of Android 14 features a sophisticated permissions model that requests app permissions only when needed, allowing users to choose between "approximate" and "precise" location access. Apps handling transactions must justify their need for real-time access. Background location usage must be disclosed in Play Store listings, and developers must complete Data Safety Forms. Android enforces scoped storage, isolating apps in sandboxed environments to reduce data leakage risks. Visual indicators for microphone and camera usage were introduced in Android 12, and Android 14 requires apps to specify the nature of access. In-app transactions in gaming apps must meet elevated security standards, including encryption and biometric logins, and undergo audits under PCI DSS. Background access for location services requires clear justification, and developers must submit a Permission Declaration Form. Google Play mandates disclosure of third-party SDKs and their data practices. User awareness is emphasized through concise permission dialogs and Data Safety summaries in Play Store listings. Secure login protocols like OAuth 2.0 are required for sensitive applications, with stronger encryption mandates. Apps for children must comply with COPPA and GDPR-K regulations, with manual reviews by the Play Store. Google's Privacy Sandbox initiative aims to enhance privacy in advertising practices, with expected rollout in 2024.

AppWizard

June 18, 2025

My 6 favorite open-source Android apps from the Google Play store – and why that matters

Android's ecosystem is closely linked with open-source software, attracting many enthusiasts. The Google Play Store offers a variety of open-source applications. 1. Bitwarden: An open-source password manager with essential features, industry-leading encryption, two-factor authentication, auto-fill capabilities, and a random password generator. It has a free version and a premium account for additional features. 2. Brave: A secure browser built on Chromium, featuring enhanced privacy tools, a built-in AI tool named Leo, and a toggleable VPN. It provides insights into tracker and ad blocking. 3. Wavelet: A free, open-source app for music lovers that offers preset sound profiles for various earbud models and features like AutoEQ, a graphic equalizer, and channel balance. 4. Tor Browser: A privacy-focused browser with extensive security features, though it may have slower loading times due to multiple security layers. It is free and open-source. 5. KDE Connect: An app that integrates Android devices with Linux systems, allowing users to share clipboard content, files, URLs, and notifications. It enhances productivity by enabling command execution on Linux devices from mobile phones. 6. ProtonVPN: A VPN service developed by CERN scientists, offering strong security features, access to servers in over 110 countries, and a free account with limitations. Paid plans provide higher speeds and more features.

AppWizard

June 15, 2025

These are the subscriptions I actually don’t mind paying for

FlightRadar24 offers a Gold subscription that provides features like bookmarking flights, accessing airport and flight histories for up to a year, and real-time weather layers. Meteogram Weather Widget's Pro version allows extensive customization and monitoring of weather conditions over various time frames, making it valuable for unpredictable weather. NordVPN is favored for its ease of use and reliability across multiple devices, justifying its annual fee for online privacy. F1TV provides access to live races and past events, with the Pro tier offering enhanced viewing features like timing and telemetry. Netflix's 4K tier enhances the viewing experience, maintaining its status as a popular streaming service despite rising costs. Spotify is a leading music streaming service, with the Duo plan allowing two users to share a subscription, catering to diverse musical tastes. Google One offers a 200GB plan for backing up files and photos, which can be shared within a family group, making it a convenient choice. OsmAnd Maps+ Annual is an open-source app beneficial for exploring off-the-beaten-path routes, with its annual fee justified by its functionality during road trips.

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

ISKP Magazine Questions Encryption Claims Of Messaging App, Cautions

The latest edition of "Voice of Khurasan" critiques Gem Space, a new social media platform attracting Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) members, highlighting security vulnerabilities. The article warns against migrating from Telegram to Gem Space due to concerns over the platform's closed-source nature, unspecified encryption protocols, lack of end-to-end encryption confirmation, unclear ownership, and absence of transparency reports. It suggests that claims of 40+ million downloads may be exaggerated, pointing to a lack of independent validation of the platform's security. The article emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making regarding digital security.

Tech Optimizer

June 5, 2025

UltraAV Delivers Continuous Innovation in Antivirus Protection

UltraAV, an antivirus solution from Point Wild, has introduced significant enhancements to improve threat protection and user experience. Key updates include: - Advanced AV Engine upgrades for faster scans and improved detection rates across versions 12.0, 12.3, 12.4, and 12.7.2. - The ability to scan external USB devices and schedule recurring scans, introduced in version 12.8. - Expanded privacy and identity protections for premium users, including identity theft monitoring and real-time fraud alerts. - Seamless integration with Total Cleaner for premium subscribers, enhancing app reliability (versions 12.7 and 12.7.1). - Self-protection features to safeguard UltraAV binaries from malware (version 12.8). - URL filtering to block harmful URLs for Chrome users (version 12.4). UltraAV is built on over 20 years of research and development, integrating real-time threat intelligence and AI-driven detection. Point Wild, the parent company, provides cybersecurity solutions to over 25 million users globally.

Tech Optimizer

May 29, 2025

How to turn off antivirus

Antivirus software is crucial for digital security, providing protection against malware threats. Users may need to disable antivirus temporarily for reasons such as system resource consumption, particularly during resource-intensive tasks like gaming, or to bypass false positives when installing applications. Disabling antivirus software poses risks, especially when browsing the internet, as even legitimate sites can be compromised. Precautions to take when disabling antivirus include disconnecting from the internet, avoiding USB drives, using trusted networks, closing non-essential applications, verifying the legitimacy of downloaded files, and limiting browsing to secure websites. Users should promptly re-enable their antivirus after completing necessary tasks.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

Perspective – Why online privacy is vital: Insights from messaging app Signal’s president

Meredith Whittaker, president of Signal, emphasized the need for enhanced personal data protection and criticized major tech companies for their pervasive data collection practices with minimal oversight. She called for structural reforms to regulate user data management and highlighted that a few tech giants dominate data collection without adequate transparency. Whittaker advocated for comprehensive regulations to safeguard user privacy and protect free speech, reflecting growing concerns among consumers and privacy advocates about the balance between technology and individual rights.

Tech Optimizer

May 14, 2025

Best Antivirus Software (2025): ESET Recognized as Top Cybersecurity Solution by Software Experts

ESET is recognized as a leading antivirus provider in 2025, known for its robust security solutions that effectively combat rising cyber threats such as phishing, ransomware, and zero-day exploits. The company's offerings include heuristic and behavioral detection, ransomware and phishing protection, exploit blocker technology, and low resource usage, ensuring minimal impact on system performance. ESET provides various products for home users, including ESET HOME Security Essential, Premium, and Ultimate, as well as a Small Business Security package for up to 25 devices and scalable solutions for larger organizations. Pricing for home products starts at .99/year, with multi-device and multi-year discounts available. ESET operates in over 200 countries, utilizing a global network for real-time threat intelligence and maintaining a commitment to effective digital security since its establishment in 1992.

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

You can now verify Mullvad VPN’s credentials

Mullvad VPN has announced that its Android app builds are now reproducible starting with version 2025.2, allowing users to verify that the app is built from the open-source code published by Mullvad. Reproducible builds ensure that the published source code matches the distributed application and that no unintended modifications occurred during the build process. Mullvad encourages users to engage in the verification process, providing source codes and instructions on its GitHub page.

Tech Optimizer

April 25, 2025

This antivirus software is for people who hate subscriptions

Priil Internet Security is currently available for .99 for a lifetime subscription, reduced from its regular price of .97. It is certified by Virus Bulletin and effectively blocks 100% of known malware threats. The software includes features such as real-time detection, firewall protection, a VPN, a password manager, a file shredder, and browser safety tools. It also offers custom scan options, a PC optimizer, and safeguards against data leaks and malicious tracking. The user-friendly interface makes it accessible to all users.