Steam typically undergoes maintenance for approximately 10 to 30 minutes on select Tuesday evenings, usually between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. ET. This routine maintenance is not prominently published but is well-known among the gaming community.
Pirated digital copies of the film "Odyssey" are being used to spread the Lumma Stealer malware, which compromises viewers' computers. Bitdefender's internal data shows that users have attempted to download malicious executable files disguised as the film, which has not yet been released on online platforms. These counterfeit copies are circulating on illegal sites, and the Lumma Stealer malware can steal sensitive information from infected devices. Bitdefender identified several bait file names that are actually executable files designed to infect computers rather than play the film. This tactic follows a trend of using popular films to disseminate malware, with similar campaigns documented in the past. Cybercriminals exploit the gap between a film's theatrical release and its availability on legal streaming platforms. Users are advised to watch films only through verified services and to keep their cybersecurity software updated.
Gemini in Chrome has launched for all Android users in the U.S., offering features that enhance mobile browsing. It allows users to summarize long articles and answer inquiries about web pages, integrating with Google applications like Calendar and Keep. The Nano Banana feature enables image customization for a personalized browsing experience. Subscribers to AI Pro and AI Ultra can use the auto browse functionality to manage tasks like booking parking or organizing travel plans. Gemini in Chrome is designed with security in mind, detecting threats and requiring user confirmation for sensitive tasks. Users can access Gemini by tapping the icon or through the three-dot menu on their Android devices.
Rockstar Games is known for its meticulous attention to detail in its virtual worlds, exemplified by features like the dynamic behavior of horse testicles in Red Dead Redemption. Recently, videos claiming to show gameplay from GTA 6 surfaced online, leading to copyright takedowns that suggest some credibility. Initial impressions indicate that GTA 6 may follow a familiar formula rather than innovate the genre. There is significant demand for the game, with a large number of preorders reflecting player trust in Rockstar. The leaked footage revealed several details about the game, including enhanced environmental interactions, smoother character animations, expansive urban landscapes, subtle weather effects, improved vehicle physics, new NPC behaviors, complex dialogue options, dynamic day-night cycles, expanded customization options, increased variety in side missions, enhanced AI, rich storytelling, potential cooperative gameplay features, high visual fidelity, a diverse soundtrack, and new gameplay mechanics.
A new exploit named ShieldBreak, developed by Nightmare-Eclipse, targets Microsoft Defender by allowing privilege escalation and bypassing previous security fixes related to the RoguePlanet vulnerability. ShieldBreak operates on Windows 11 25H2, its Canary channel, and Windows Server 2025, achieving a "100% success rate." Windows 10 may also be vulnerable, but the exploit is specifically designed for Windows 11. There is currently no patch for ShieldBreak, and users are advised to disable Microsoft Defender, implement two-factor authentication, and exercise caution with suspicious online activities. Malwarebytes has recommended its Premium Security antivirus as a temporary solution.
Google is rolling out a Chrome update on Android, introducing Gemini webpage summarization, Q&A, and connected apps to all U.S. users. AI Pro and Ultra subscribers will receive an auto-browse feature that allows Gemini to purchase items or secure events based on user prompts. The update also includes the Nano Banana feature. Users can summarize lengthy articles and ask specific questions about online content by tapping the Gemini icon in Chrome. The auto-browse feature enables users to instruct Gemini to perform tasks like ordering products or booking events, providing transparency in its actions. Additionally, the Personal Intelligence feature personalizes responses based on individual hobbies and preferences.
A pair of clips allegedly showcasing gameplay footage from Grand Theft Auto 6 and images of the in-game map of Leonida, inspired by Florida, have surfaced online. Rockstar has not confirmed the legitimacy of these clips, which may be from an earlier version of the game. The gameplay appears ordinary, resembling scenes from a tester rather than promotional trailers.
Players will encounter a new identification system used by law enforcement, categorizing them based on clothing, facial or hair color, and vehicle type. Altering appearance or vehicle could help evade capture. A stamina meter is visible during brawls, depleting with each punch and imposing movement penalties when empty. A blue stealth indicator arrow tracks police proximity, allowing for a stealthy gameplay approach.
Players can enhance character traits, similar to Red Dead Redemption 2, with activities like sinking a basketball boosting the Focus attribute, likely tied to a slow-motion mechanic. The leaked map shows a car icon marked with a "J," indicating Lucia's location while navigating via boat or aircraft, and Jason's location elsewhere in Leonida. The map also hints at small racetracks throughout Leonida for racing and income generation. Jason's house is marked in the southern region of Leonida, specifically on one of the islands in the Keys. Speculation exists about an airport at the southernmost tip of the Keys potentially serving as a military base, possibly for stealing fighter jets.
Many users who prefer physical media are transitioning to digital formats for convenience and archival purposes. Windows 11 Media Player can rip CDs but has issues with metadata handling due to the discontinuation of its online metadata tool, leading to incomplete tracks and missing artwork. Exact Audio Copy (EAC) is a free application that offers a more effective solution, providing accurate digital copies in FLAC format with standardized filenames, metadata, and album artwork. EAC includes a setup wizard and uses MusicBrainz for metadata after the first ten rips. It features AccurateRip, which verifies CD quality against a database, and can handle scratched discs, making it a reliable choice for digitizing CDs.
Users have been experiencing login issues with the Vinted app since approximately 3 PM, with reports indicating that 67% of the problems are related to the app itself and 26% specifically to login difficulties. The disruptions have been widespread across the UK, particularly in cities like London, Birmingham, and Leeds. Downdetector reported that a significant number of users were unable to access their profiles, sales, and orders, with many expressing their frustrations on social media. Vinted confirmed that they experienced a temporary technical issue that has since been resolved.
Steam is an online distribution service developed by Valve Corporation that offers a vast library of games, including indie and blockbuster titles. It continuously updates its platform with new features to enhance user experience, such as tools for developers to reach broader audiences, algorithms for game discovery, community engagement features like forums and user reviews, and regular sales events. Steam supports cross-platform play, allowing collaboration among gamers on different devices. The platform is also focusing on virtual reality and cloud gaming to adapt to industry trends.