passwords Archives

Tech Optimizer

May 22, 2026

What the Tech: Phone antivirus apps |Helpful protection or a scam?

Most individuals do not require antivirus apps on their smartphones, as the primary threats have shifted from traditional viruses to scams and deceptive practices. iPhones utilize app isolation, making them less susceptible to conventional viruses but vulnerable to scams like phishing and fraudulent messages. Android phones allow sideloading, increasing the risk of malware from unofficial sources. The main threats include phishing texts, fake login pages, scam calls, reused passwords, and social engineering tactics. To enhance security, users should keep their phones updated, use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, avoid suspicious links, and refrain from installing apps from unknown sources. Antivirus apps may be helpful in specific situations, such as frequent link tapping or downloading files from unfamiliar websites, with reputable companies offering mobile security solutions focused on scam detection and account safety.

Tech Optimizer

May 21, 2026

What the Tech? Antivirus protection for your smartphone

Most users do not require an antivirus app on their smartphones, as the predominant threats are scams such as phishing texts and fraudulent websites rather than traditional viruses. iPhones operate on a design that isolates apps, limiting the effectiveness of antivirus software, while Android devices allow sideloading, which can increase the risk of malware. The real danger lies in deception tactics used by cybercriminals, making personal account security more important than antivirus software. To enhance security, users should keep their operating systems updated, use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, avoid suspicious links, and refrain from installing apps from unknown sources. Antivirus apps may be beneficial for users who frequently click on unverified links, download files from unfamiliar sites, or engage in Android sideloading. Reputable security apps focus on scam detection and web protection rather than traditional virus scanning.

Tech Optimizer

May 21, 2026

Do you need antivirus on your phone?

Mobile security discussions often question the necessity of antivirus programs for smartphones. While traditionally seen as essential, the need for antivirus software is being reevaluated, especially for advanced smartphones. Apple's iPhone has stringent security measures that prevent traditional antivirus scanning, with scams being the primary threat rather than viruses. In contrast, Android devices allow sideloading, increasing the risk of malware, despite Google monitoring the Play Store. For users primarily downloading from official stores, antivirus applications may not be necessary. Instead, users should focus on keeping devices updated, using strong passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication to enhance security.

AppWizard

May 21, 2026

This Free Steam Game Tricks Players Into Downloading Malware, Users Beware

Steam users are warned about the risks of downloading free games, particularly a compromised title called Beyond The Dark, which was a clone of the horror game Phasmophobia. This game contained malware named UnityPlayer.dll that activated upon launch, targeting saved passwords and cryptocurrency extensions in browsers. Users experienced instability and crashes while the malware operated in the background. It is recommended that those who downloaded the game delete associated files and perform a system scan, changing any potentially compromised passwords. Valve has removed Beyond The Dark from its storefront to prevent further downloads. Users are advised to scrutinize game descriptions, review feedback, and maintain reliable antivirus software to protect their personal information.

Tech Optimizer

May 21, 2026

PostgreSQL Flaws Expose Databases to Remote Code Execution and SQL Injection

PostgreSQL has released versions 18.4, 17.10, 16.14, 15.18, and 14.23 to address 11 security vulnerabilities and over 60 bugs. The vulnerabilities affect PostgreSQL versions 14 through 18 and include issues such as remote code execution, SQL injection, and denial-of-service risks. Specific vulnerabilities include: - CVE-2026-6472: Missing authorization in CREATE TYPE allows query hijacking. - CVE-2026-6473: Integer wraparound leads to out-of-bounds writes and server crashes. - CVE-2026-6474: Format string issue leaks server memory. - CVE-2026-6475: Symlink attack allows overwriting arbitrary files. - CVE-2026-6476: SQL injection allows execution of arbitrary SQL as superuser. - CVE-2026-6477: Memory buffer overwrite via libpq lo_* functions. - CVE-2026-6478: Timing attack exposes MD5-hashed passwords. - CVE-2026-6479: SSL/GSS recursion flaw allows denial-of-service. - CVE-2026-6575: Buffer over-read leaks memory data (PostgreSQL 18 only). - CVE-2026-6637: Refint module enables stack overflow and SQL injection, leading to possible RCE. - CVE-2026-6638: SQL injection in REFRESH PUBLICATION via table names. Organizations are advised to upgrade to the latest versions, avoid MD5 password authentication, restrict privileges, audit extensions, and monitor for abnormal activity. PostgreSQL 14 will reach its end-of-life on November 12, 2026.

Tech Optimizer

May 19, 2026

Avast Free Antivirus for US users: core features explained

Avast Free Antivirus is a free security application that provides essential malware protection and additional tools for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It blocks malware and suspicious websites using real-time scanning and integrates with the operating system's security center on Windows. Key features include file shield scanning, web and mail shields, and ransomware-related shields on select platforms. It is available for free download in the US and is popular among home users, families, students, and individual professionals. Avast competes with other antivirus vendors like McAfee and Bitdefender and is often reviewed positively by tech outlets. While it offers core protections, advanced features require paid subscriptions. Users can conduct various types of scans and utilize browser extensions to assess site safety. The software is designed to coexist with Windows built-in security features, but experts advise using additional security measures for online banking and shopping.

Tech Optimizer

May 17, 2026

Norton 360 explained: features, protection and US use

Norton 360 is a subscription-based security suite developed by Gen Digital, designed to protect various devices, including Windows PCs, Macs, smartphones, and tablets, from threats like malware and phishing attacks. It includes features such as antivirus and anti-malware scanning, a smart firewall, a password manager, a secure VPN, and dark web monitoring. The suite operates quietly in the background, continuously monitoring for malicious behavior. Norton 360 is marketed in the US and available in Europe and Asia-Pacific, targeting households with multiple devices and online accounts. Gen Digital, the company behind Norton 360, is publicly traded on Nasdaq under the ticker GEN.

Winsage

May 16, 2026

Microsoft reverses course on Edge password handling but denies users were ever at risk

Microsoft Edge will implement a change in password management by no longer loading passwords into memory at startup, as part of an update to version 148. This change is already operational in the Canary Channel and will soon be available to all users.

AppWizard

May 14, 2026

5 Android App Permissions You Should Never Allow

Users should be cautious when granting permissions to applications on Android devices, as extensive access can lead to security vulnerabilities. Apps with accessibility permissions can perform actions like hacking passwords and altering device settings without user consent. Overlay permissions allow apps to display content over others, which can be exploited by malicious apps to trick users into providing sensitive information. Installing apps from unknown sources poses risks to device security and privacy. Usage data access enables apps to monitor user activity, which can be sold to advertisers. Granting access to contacts and SMS can lead to privacy concerns, as this information can be exploited by malicious entities. Users are advised to regularly review and manage app permissions to mitigate potential threats.

AppWizard

May 13, 2026

Android Adds Intrusion Logging for Sophisticated Spyware Forensics

Google introduced a new opt-in feature for Android users called Intrusion Logging, which enhances the analysis of spyware attacks as part of the Advanced Protection Mode. Developed with Amnesty International and Reporters Without Borders, it logs daily device and network activities, including app activity, installations, network connections, file transfers, system certificate modifications, and device lock events. The log data is encrypted and stored securely, accessible only to the device owner. Logs are retained for 12 months and cannot be deleted by users before expiration, though they can be downloaded for offline storage. Intrusion Logging also records network events during Chrome's Incognito mode. This feature is beneficial for high-risk individuals who may be targets of surveillance. Users can access the logs through the Settings app, and the rollout is underway for devices with the Android 16 December update and newer. Additionally, Google announced other privacy and security features, including a verified financial call feature to combat scams, expansion of Live Threat Detection, evaluation of APK files for malware, revocation of accessibility services API access from non-designated apps, and enhancements to Find Hub's Mark as Lost feature. Other updates include improved device recovery options, enhanced privacy controls, introduction of AISeal with pKVM, expansion of Binary Transparency, protection against OTP theft, and strengthening data protection with post-quantum cryptography.