password Archives

Tech Optimizer

February 21, 2025

Self-managed multi-tenant vector search with Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL

Organizations are using generative AI and machine learning tools to extract value from unstructured data, employing specialized machine learning models to convert data into vectors for efficient searching and retrieval. Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-Compatible Edition, with the pgvector extension, allows developers to create a vector store for generative AI applications. Multi-tenant architectures in software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications ensure tenant data isolation to maintain security and privacy. In a multi-tenant scenario, home survey requests are processed, and survey reports are stored in Amazon S3. Embedding models convert these documents into vector embeddings, which are stored in a vector store. There are two approaches to building a vector-based application: a self-managed approach, where developers handle data processing and queries, and a fully-managed option using Amazon Bedrock Knowledge Bases. The self-managed approach involves coding to process data, generate vector embeddings, and store them in Aurora. The architecture includes data ingestion via AWS Lambda, embedding conversion, SQL queries for data retrieval, and response enhancement using a large language model (LLM). Key terminologies include vector embeddings, embedding models, chunking, pgvector, HNSW index, and IVFFlat index. The process of creating a vector store involves configuring the Aurora PostgreSQL database, enabling the pgvector extension, and establishing a schema for the vector store. The vector table includes fields for UUID, vector embeddings, text chunks, metadata, and tenant identification. Data ingestion requires coding to convert data into embeddings and insert them into the database. Retrieval of vector data is crucial for enhancing prompts sent to LLMs, with various distance functions supported for identifying similar vectors. Multi-tenancy is enforced using row-level security in PostgreSQL, ensuring tenant data isolation. The process includes updating query functions to support tenant isolation and setting the current tenant ID for queries.

Tech Optimizer

February 21, 2025

Multi-tenant vector search with Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL and Amazon Bedrock Knowledge Bases

The article discusses the implementation of a multi-tenant vector store using Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-Compatible Edition and Amazon Bedrock Knowledge Bases. It outlines a scenario where users request home surveys, and surveyors update findings stored in an Amazon S3 bucket. The process involves converting documents into vector embeddings for enhanced natural language queries through the Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) technique. Key steps include: 1. Ingesting data from S3 into Amazon Bedrock Knowledge Bases. 2. Using an embeddings model to convert documents into vector embeddings. 3. Storing vector embeddings, data chunks, and metadata in Aurora with pgvector. 4. Submitting natural language queries that are transformed into embeddings for retrieval from the vector store. 5. Forwarding relevant documents to a large language model for response generation. To set up the vector store, prerequisites include access to an Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-compatible database, Amazon S3 for document storage, and Amazon Bedrock for managing knowledge bases. The article provides SQL commands for creating the necessary schema, vector table, and index in Aurora, as well as instructions for ingesting data and ensuring multi-tenant data isolation through metadata filtering. Best practices for deploying a multi-tenant vector store include optimizing chunk size, evaluating embedding models, and monitoring query performance. The article emphasizes the benefits of fully managed solutions to reduce operational complexity.

AppWizard

February 20, 2025

Your Android phone could have stalkerware. Here’s how to remove it

Consumer-grade spyware applications, often referred to as "stalkerware" or "spouseware," pose significant risks to Android users by monitoring private messages, photos, phone calls, and real-time locations without consent. These apps are typically downloaded from outside the Google Play Store and can be stealthily installed, often disappearing from the home screen. Stalkerware exploits legitimate Android features, leading to unusual phone behavior such as excessive heat, sluggish performance, or unexpected data usage. To address spyware, users should establish a safety plan and trusted support before attempting removal, as this could alert the installer. Google Play Protect should be enabled to scan for harmful apps. Users should check for unfamiliar apps in accessibility services, review notification access for third-party applications, and inspect device admin app settings for unrecognized applications. Even hidden stalkerware apps will appear in the list of installed applications, which can be accessed through the settings menu. Strengthening device security, such as enhancing lock screen passwords and using two-factor authentication, is recommended. Resources for support include the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the Coalition Against Stalkerware.

Tech Optimizer

February 19, 2025

Amazon’s Best Tax and Security Duo, TurboTax Deluxe and McAfee Bundle Is 63% Off

Amazon is offering a bundle that includes Intuit TurboTax 2024 Deluxe Federal + State and a 15-month subscription to McAfee Total Protection for three devices at a 63% discount. The bundle costs .99, providing savings of off the regular price. TurboTax 2024 Deluxe allows for five federal e-files and one state return, guiding users through over 375 deductions and credits, and includes an Audit Risk Meter. It can import prior year data and essential forms. McAfee Total Protection 2025 features antivirus protection, secure VPN, password manager, and identity monitoring. Both applications are compatible with PC and Mac, with TurboTax requiring MacOS 13 or later.

Tech Optimizer

February 18, 2025

Microsoft Defender vs. McAfee: Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons

eSecurity Planet maintains editorial independence and may earn revenue from partner links. Microsoft Defender, a free built-in antivirus for Windows, offers minimal configuration and supports Windows 10 and 11, while McAfee, which holds a 12.47% share of the global antivirus market, provides extensive privacy monitoring and data protection across multiple platforms (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS) with various pricing plans ranging from .99 to 9.99. Microsoft Defender supports a single device and includes features like real-time threat protection, parental controls, and a firewall, but lacks advanced features like VPN and identity theft monitoring. McAfee offers a wider range of features, including a VPN, identity theft monitoring, and data cleanup, making it a more comprehensive solution despite its higher cost. Microsoft Defender has an overall rating of 3.8/5, while McAfee rates 4.4/5, excelling in customer support with multiple channels, including live chat and phone support. Microsoft Defender is suitable for users on a budget, while McAfee is better for those needing robust privacy and identity protection. Alternatives to consider include Norton, Bitdefender, and Malwarebytes.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

Microsoft is finally working on making PC migration painless with a new app

Microsoft is developing a new migration application to simplify data transfer from old PCs to new ones, as discovered in the Windows 11 Insider Beta build 22635.4945. The app is still in early stages, with only preliminary user interface elements visible. It will assist users in backing up existing data and transferring files, requiring both computers to be close and connected to the same Wi-Fi network. The migration process will involve pairing devices with a one-time password (OTP) and confirming the transfer. While mockups suggest potential design and functionality, the app is not yet fully functional, and there is no timeline for its release, although it is expected to be available to Windows Insiders before a wider public rollout.

Tech Optimizer

February 17, 2025

McAfee+ Ultimate review: Comprehensive security that needs more polish

McAfee+ Ultimate includes: - Antivirus and malware protection - Link screening and firewall security - Password manager and VPN services - Identity monitoring on the dark web - Tracker removal and parental controls for family plans - Social Privacy Manager for social media privacy settings - Scam Protection for screening risky links in text messages - Online Account Cleanup and Personal Data Cleanup services Pricing for McAfee+ Ultimate is: - Individual subscription: [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: McAfee+ Ultimate stands as a formidable contender in the realm of cybersecurity, boasting an extensive suite of features designed to protect users from various online threats. The subscription includes essential tools such as antivirus protection, link screening, and firewall capabilities, but it goes beyond the basics with additional offerings like a password manager, VPN, and identity monitoring on the dark web. What does McAfee+ Ultimate include? The comprehensive nature of McAfee+ Ultimate is evident in its robust feature set. Users benefit from: Antivirus and malware protection Link screening and firewall security Password manager and VPN services Identity monitoring on the dark web Tracker removal and parental controls for family plans Additionally, McAfee offers tools such as a Social Privacy Manager, which provides privacy settings suggestions for social media, and Scam Protection, an AI-driven feature that screens for risky links in text messages. The suite also includes Online Account Cleanup and Personal Data Cleanup services, which help users manage their online presence and remove unwanted data from data broker sites. How much does McAfee+ Ultimate cost? Pricing for McAfee+ Ultimate is structured to appeal to both individual users and families. An individual subscription is priced at 0 for the first year, subsequently increasing to 0. For families, the initial cost is 0, rising to 5 in subsequent years. Each plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, although users should note that auto-renewal is enabled by default, with charges applied 30 days before the current subscription expires. Key features of McAfee+ Ultimate Installation and user interface The McAfee app presents a modern aesthetic, yet some users may find its layout somewhat disorganized. The home screen features shortcuts to key functionalities, while a left navigation bar provides access to a broader range of tools. However, premium features are often located on the McAfee Protection Center portal rather than within the app itself, which can lead to confusion. Virus, malware, and threat protection McAfee+ Ultimate excels in real-time protection, continuously monitoring files and applications for unusual behavior. Independent testing has shown strong performance in detecting threats, although the interface limits user control over specific settings, such as folder protection and email scanning. VPN The VPN service can be accessed through the McAfee app or a separate download. While it offers a user-friendly interface, some users have reported bugs that hinder functionality. The VPN supports connections in 47 countries, providing users with a range of options for secure browsing. Password manager McAfee’s password manager, True Key, offers basic functionality but lacks advanced security features. Users have reported issues with login verification, which can be frustrating. For those seeking a reliable password management solution, standalone services may provide better performance. Parental controls Managed through the Safe Family software, McAfee’s parental controls allow guardians to set restrictions based on their children’s ages. While the interface is straightforward, some users may find the lack of a web interface limiting. Identity and financial protections One of the standout features of McAfee+ Ultimate is its identity and financial protection services. Users can monitor their personal information for breaches, track financial transactions, and receive assistance with identity theft restoration. The plan offers substantial coverage for losses related to identity theft and ransomware, making it a valuable asset for those concerned about online security. Performance In terms of performance, McAfee has demonstrated strong results in independent tests, effectively detecting a high percentage of malware and threats. However, its offline detection rate is notably lower, which may pose a risk for users without a constant internet connection. Additionally, the software can impact system performance during scans, particularly on mid-range and budget PCs. While McAfee+ Ultimate presents a comprehensive suite of features aimed at safeguarding users online, the overall experience could benefit from greater polish and refinement. As it stands, the service offers a solid foundation for online security, albeit with some areas needing improvement." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"] for the first year, then .99 - Family subscription: [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: McAfee+ Ultimate stands as a formidable contender in the realm of cybersecurity, boasting an extensive suite of features designed to protect users from various online threats. The subscription includes essential tools such as antivirus protection, link screening, and firewall capabilities, but it goes beyond the basics with additional offerings like a password manager, VPN, and identity monitoring on the dark web. What does McAfee+ Ultimate include? The comprehensive nature of McAfee+ Ultimate is evident in its robust feature set. Users benefit from: Antivirus and malware protection Link screening and firewall security Password manager and VPN services Identity monitoring on the dark web Tracker removal and parental controls for family plans Additionally, McAfee offers tools such as a Social Privacy Manager, which provides privacy settings suggestions for social media, and Scam Protection, an AI-driven feature that screens for risky links in text messages. The suite also includes Online Account Cleanup and Personal Data Cleanup services, which help users manage their online presence and remove unwanted data from data broker sites. How much does McAfee+ Ultimate cost? Pricing for McAfee+ Ultimate is structured to appeal to both individual users and families. An individual subscription is priced at 0 for the first year, subsequently increasing to 0. For families, the initial cost is 0, rising to 5 in subsequent years. Each plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, although users should note that auto-renewal is enabled by default, with charges applied 30 days before the current subscription expires. Key features of McAfee+ Ultimate Installation and user interface The McAfee app presents a modern aesthetic, yet some users may find its layout somewhat disorganized. The home screen features shortcuts to key functionalities, while a left navigation bar provides access to a broader range of tools. However, premium features are often located on the McAfee Protection Center portal rather than within the app itself, which can lead to confusion. Virus, malware, and threat protection McAfee+ Ultimate excels in real-time protection, continuously monitoring files and applications for unusual behavior. Independent testing has shown strong performance in detecting threats, although the interface limits user control over specific settings, such as folder protection and email scanning. VPN The VPN service can be accessed through the McAfee app or a separate download. While it offers a user-friendly interface, some users have reported bugs that hinder functionality. The VPN supports connections in 47 countries, providing users with a range of options for secure browsing. Password manager McAfee’s password manager, True Key, offers basic functionality but lacks advanced security features. Users have reported issues with login verification, which can be frustrating. For those seeking a reliable password management solution, standalone services may provide better performance. Parental controls Managed through the Safe Family software, McAfee’s parental controls allow guardians to set restrictions based on their children’s ages. While the interface is straightforward, some users may find the lack of a web interface limiting. Identity and financial protections One of the standout features of McAfee+ Ultimate is its identity and financial protection services. Users can monitor their personal information for breaches, track financial transactions, and receive assistance with identity theft restoration. The plan offers substantial coverage for losses related to identity theft and ransomware, making it a valuable asset for those concerned about online security. Performance In terms of performance, McAfee has demonstrated strong results in independent tests, effectively detecting a high percentage of malware and threats. However, its offline detection rate is notably lower, which may pose a risk for users without a constant internet connection. Additionally, the software can impact system performance during scans, particularly on mid-range and budget PCs. While McAfee+ Ultimate presents a comprehensive suite of features aimed at safeguarding users online, the overall experience could benefit from greater polish and refinement. As it stands, the service offers a solid foundation for online security, albeit with some areas needing improvement." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"] for the first year, then 9.99 - Each plan includes a 30-day money-back guarantee and auto-renewal enabled by default. The VPN supports connections in 47 countries, and the password manager, True Key, has basic functionality but lacks advanced security features. Parental controls are managed through Safe Family software. The identity and financial protection services monitor personal information for breaches and assist with identity theft restoration. McAfee has shown strong performance in detecting malware and threats, although offline detection rates are lower, and system performance may be impacted during scans.

Tech Optimizer

February 17, 2025

Mac users beware: AI-powered malware threats are on the rise

Apple devices, particularly Macs, are facing an increase in cyberattacks, with a new wave of sophisticated malware targeting sensitive data. The emergence of Atomic Stealer (AMOS) in mid-2023 marked a shift from less harmful adware to more serious threats, with AMOS being marketed as a user-friendly service. By mid-2024, Poseidon became the leading Mac information stealer, responsible for 70% of infections and capable of draining various cryptocurrency wallets and capturing sensitive credentials. Cybercriminals are also using malvertising to lure users into downloading disguised malware. Android users are experiencing an even more severe situation, with a significant rise in phishing attacks. In 2024, researchers identified 22,800 malicious apps designed for phishing, along with thousands capable of reading one-time passwords (OTPs). These apps often mimic legitimate software and can easily infiltrate app stores, including Google Play. While Google Play Protect offers some malware protection, it is not entirely effective. To protect against malware threats, it is recommended to use strong antivirus software, be cautious with downloads and links, keep software updated, use strong and unique passwords, and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for critical accounts.

Tech Optimizer

February 15, 2025

Simplify database authentication management with the Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL pg_ad_mapping extension

Authentication is essential for security in enterprise environments, protecting sensitive data and resources from unauthorized access. Kerberos authentication is utilized for Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-Compatible Edition with AWS Directory Service for Microsoft Active Directory, particularly through the pg_ad_mapping extension, which enhances access control management. Aurora PostgreSQL supports multiple authentication methods, including password authentication, AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM) database authentication, and Kerberos authentication. By default, password authentication is enabled, while IAM and Kerberos can be used independently. Users are assigned specific roles based on the authentication method: rds_iam for IAM, rds_ad for Kerberos, and no specific roles for password authentication. Kerberos authentication integrates with Microsoft Active Directory, allowing centralized authentication and single sign-on (SSO) capabilities. With versions 14.10 and 15.5, Aurora PostgreSQL introduced the pg_ad_mapping extension, which allows administrators to manage access through Active Directory (AD) security groups instead of provisioning individual users. This extension checks AD group memberships upon user login and assigns corresponding database roles, prioritizing roles based on assigned weights. The pg_ad_mapping extension includes functions such as pgadmap_set_mapping to add mappings between AD security groups and database roles, pgadmap_read_mapping to list existing mappings, and pgadmap_reset_mapping to delete or reset mappings. To deploy the solution, a CloudFormation stack is used to create necessary resources, including an AWS Managed Microsoft AD server, an Aurora PostgreSQL database cluster, and a Windows EC2 instance. Users can be added to AD groups, and roles can be mapped to facilitate access management. Security best practices for Aurora PostgreSQL include using IAM policies for resource management, implementing security groups for database access control, utilizing encryption for data protection, and employing Transport Layer Security (TLS) for secure connections. For auditing, the pg_stat_gssapi view can be used to identify authenticated users, and enabling the log_connections parameter will log session establishments, including AD user identities.

AppWizard

February 14, 2025

‘Minecraft’ Gets Free “CyberSafe AI” DLC, Teaching AI Literacy to a New Generation

Mojang Studios and Microsoft released the "CyberSafe AI" DLC as part of their educational content series, aimed at teaching users about the applications and challenges of artificial intelligence. The DLC is free and available on the Minecraft Marketplace. A Microsoft Global Online Safety Survey indicates that in 2024, 51% of individuals reported using generative AI, up from 38% in 2023, with Generation Z leading at 64%. The DLC allows players to simulate AI usage while learning about the importance of verifying AI-generated information. The CyberSafe series has achieved over 80 million downloads since its launch in 2022, focusing on digital citizenship skills. The experience encourages critical questioning of AI content and emphasizes the need for human oversight in AI systems. Families can access additional resources through the Minecraft Family Cyber Toolkit and Xbox's family gaming platform.