payments Archives

AppWizard

July 26, 2025

Russia launches new messenger app that can spy on citizens

Russia is set to unveil a new device featuring an application called Max, which integrates messaging, video calls, payments, and access to government services. There are concerns about potential state surveillance due to data being stored on Russian servers, which could be accessed by the Federal Security Service (FSB). The possible ban on WhatsApp may drive users to adopt Max as their primary communication tool. Critics argue that Max represents a shift towards increased digital control, potentially compromising personal freedoms by combining communication and government services in one platform.

Tech Optimizer

July 25, 2025

I Lost My Production Database Overnight—Here’s the Tool I Built So You Don’t

A moment of fatigue led to a significant mishap in a production database, resulting in the loss of approximately 30% of revenue. This incident prompted the creation of an open-source PostgreSQL backup and monitoring tool called Postgresus, which is built using Go, gin, gorm, React, TypeScript, and PostgreSQL, and packaged in Docker. The tool allows for scheduled backups, storage in cloud options, and notifications about backup success or failure. It also alerts users if the database becomes unresponsive. The creator experienced a database corruption incident in 2023 while managing a pet project, which resulted in the overwriting of user emails and significant operational challenges. The initial version of the backup tool was developed in Java but later transitioned to Go for improved performance. The project aims to enhance PostgreSQL monitoring and expand notification channels and storage support. The creator has adopted safety rules for database management, including performing a SELECT before executing an UPDATE and conducting restoration drills every three months.

AppWizard

July 25, 2025

Putin’s ‘digital gulag’: Inside the Kremlin’s attempt to construct a spy app to snoop on Russians

A new messenger app named Max, developed by Russian tech company VK, will be pre-installed on all new digital devices sold in Russia starting September. Analysts express concerns that Max, which integrates messaging, video calls, government services, and mobile payments, could be used as a surveillance tool by the Kremlin due to its architecture and local server location. There are fears that it may enable the government to monitor citizens closely, with a potential ban on popular apps like WhatsApp to steer users towards Max. Russian opposition journalist Andrey Okun has described Max as part of a "digital gulag" that allows for strict government oversight of citizens. Experts suggest that the introduction of Max is part of a broader initiative to enhance state surveillance capabilities. The Russian government has previously expressed frustration with foreign apps complicating surveillance, and attempts to block platforms like Telegram have had limited success, indicating a potential increase in efforts to control messaging services in the future.

AppWizard

July 24, 2025

Itch.io pulls NSFW games after payment processor pressure

Itch.io has decided to remove all adult NSFW titles in response to pressure from payment providers and a campaign by the anti-porn group Collective Shout. The platform is conducting a comprehensive content audit to ensure compliance with payment provider requirements. Founder Leaf Corcoran emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust payment processing system for creators and acknowledged the abrupt nature of the changes, apologizing for the lack of advance notice. Similarly, Valve has introduced new guidelines regarding content on Steam, influenced by the same campaign.

BetaBeacon

July 23, 2025

Best Casino Apps USA 2025 – Play iPhone Casino Apps for Real Money

The top ranked casino apps for July 2025 include BetWhale, Raging Bull, Wild Casino, Black Lotus, and Lucky Red. BetWhale offers a 250% casino bonus up to ,500 and surprise promotions. Raging Bull provides a 250% bonus up to ,500 and 50 free spins. Wild Casino offers 250 welcome free spins and immediate VIP program access. Black Lotus has a 200% match bonus up to ,000 and 30 free spins on Big Game. Lucky Red provides a 400% slots bonus up to ,000 and allows users to enjoy free and demo slot games on mobile without signing up.

AppWizard

July 22, 2025

Explained: How Russia Is Cracking Down on the Internet and Messaging Apps

The Kremlin has increased restrictions on Russian citizens' access to foreign websites and information that contradicts state narratives since the Ukraine conflict began. New legislation has been passed to impose fines for searching for "extremist" content and for advertising VPN services, with penalties including fines of up to 5,000 rubles for individual users. A potential ban on WhatsApp is being considered in favor of a domestic alternative called Max, which is expected to serve as Russia's national messaging platform and may collect user data. Approximately 680 bots have been promoting Max while disparaging WhatsApp. Additionally, at least 40 Russian regions have recently experienced mobile internet outages, which coincide with increased Ukrainian drone attacks and are speculated to serve both security and internet sovereignty goals.

Winsage

July 20, 2025

Just hours left to grab MS Office Pro 2021 for $40

Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows is available for a one-time payment of .97, reduced from its regular price of 9.99. This offer is valid until July 20, providing a lifetime license for essential productivity applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, Access, and the free version of Teams. The purchase does not require a Microsoft 365 subscription, allowing permanent access to the software without recurring charges.

Winsage

July 19, 2025

Linux breaks a new record for US market share as people presumably flee Windows for its open-source rival

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 as the end-of-life deadline for Windows 10 approaches. Despite this, many users remain loyal to Windows 10, leading Microsoft to offer extended support options for a fee. This situation has prompted some Windows 10 users to explore alternative operating systems, contributing to Linux achieving over 5% market share in the US for the first time, according to StatCounter. Linux's market share has increased by approximately 1.30% over the past year, coinciding with a decline of over 2% for Windows.

AppWizard

July 19, 2025

Who ‘won’ a super-busy Steam week for debuts?

This week, over 20 games launched on Steam, accumulating more than 50,000 wishlists, with nine titles exceeding 100,000 wishlists. The Switch eShop has introduced new publishing guidelines in Asia regarding game bundles and content restrictions. Roblox is enhancing its safety platform with new features for players aged 13 and above. Star Wars Battlefront II's recent Steam revenue is estimated at millions, contributing to its overall success. Subnautica 2 has a wishlist total of 2.48 million amid a lawsuit against Krafton. The American Time Use survey shows individuals spend an average of 34 minutes on games and computers for leisure. Valve has improved wishlist data updates on Steam, but some users reported bugs in their charts. Payment providers like PayPal have restricted payments for certain extreme adult-themed games on Steam, prompting Valve to clarify its content policies.

Winsage

July 15, 2025

Upgrade your PC for under $20 with Office 2019

Microsoft Office 2019 Professional Plus is available for .97, a 91% discount from its regular price of 9. This offer includes a lifetime license for one Windows PC, with no subscription fees. The suite features Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, Publisher, and OneNote, but does not include Microsoft Teams. It requires Windows 10 or 11 and is not compatible with older operating systems. The purchase is made through a verified Microsoft Partner, and license keys and download links are provided via email within seven days.