policy change Archives

AppWizard

August 30, 2025

Google’s Android Lockdown: Are You Really In Control Of Your Phone?

On August 25, Google announced a policy change requiring all app developers to verify their identities before their applications can operate on certified Android devices, extending this requirement to all apps, including side-loaded ones. This policy allows Google to prevent users from running disapproved applications, raising concerns about user freedom and control over their devices. Google cites cybersecurity concerns, claiming that side-loaded apps have led to a significant increase in malware. The company aims to collect personal information from developers to enhance user security, despite criticisms regarding the effectiveness of this approach. Data breaches have become increasingly common, with notable incidents affecting millions, and identity theft costs Americans billions annually. The text discusses the potential of cryptography to enhance trust in digital interactions, highlighting technologies like PGP and concepts like webs of trust as solutions to secure identity verification. Alternative app stores and operating systems focused on user privacy are emerging as potential responses to the challenges posed by Google's policy.

AppWizard

August 29, 2025

Google to require identity verification for all Android app developers from next year

Google will require identity verification for all developers distributing apps on Android devices starting in 2026, initially in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand, with a global rollout planned for 2027. Developers must provide personal information such as their legal name, address, email, and phone number, and may need to submit a government ID. This change primarily affects those distributing apps outside the Google Play Store and aims to reduce malware and scams by preventing banned developers from returning under new identities.

AppWizard

August 27, 2025

Google to require developer identity checks for sideloaded Android apps

Beginning in September 2026, Google will require Android developers in Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand to verify their identities before distributing apps outside the Play Store. Developers must provide personal information such as their legal name, address, email, phone number, and possibly a government-issued ID. This requirement will expand globally in 2027, affecting all sideloaded applications. Developers already verified through the Play Store will not need additional checks. Google is creating a dedicated Android Developer Console for those distributing apps outside the Play Store and will offer a free verification option for student and hobbyist creators. Early access programs for developers will start in October 2025.

Winsage

August 17, 2025

Microsoft won’t let you disable app updates on the Microsoft Store anymore

Microsoft has implemented a new policy for app updates in the Microsoft Store, limiting users to pausing updates for a maximum of five weeks. After this period, updates will automatically resume. This change aims to enhance security by ensuring users have the latest versions of applications. Attempts to bypass the pause on updates will not be successful.

Tech Optimizer

August 1, 2025

Yes, You Can Bundle Other Cybersecurity Services With Some VPNs. But Is It a Good Idea

Relying solely on a VPN and personal vigilance may leave individuals exposed to online threats such as phishing, malware, identity theft, and ransomware. A VPN enhances online privacy by encrypting internet traffic and concealing the user's IP address, but it is only one part of a broader security strategy. Additional tools like password managers, antivirus software, encrypted cloud storage, secure email, and identity protection services are recommended for optimal protection. Many VPN providers now offer bundled services, which can include these additional tools, making it easier for users to manage their online security. Bundling services can provide convenience, easy access to various tools, and potential cost savings. However, there are also reasons to consider an á la carte approach, such as the possibility of lower costs with individual subscriptions, concerns about trusting a single provider with all services, and the need for specific services that may not be included in a VPN bundle.

Winsage

July 15, 2025

Cyber Agency—50% Of Microsoft Windows PCs ‘Vulnerable To Attack’

Microsoft has decided to extend the life of Windows 10, affecting approximately 700 million users, with around 250 million lacking the necessary hardware for Windows 11. About 50% of users are still on Windows 10, leading to concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has warned that devices not meeting Windows 11 requirements are vulnerable to attacks and highlighted the risks of remaining on Windows 10, referencing the WannaCry ransomware attack as an example. Despite Microsoft's efforts to encourage upgrades, many users are hesitant to change, and the NCSC suggests that the inertia of users may pose the greatest threat to security.

AppWizard

July 8, 2025

I Tried Signal, Telegram and WhatsApp, and This Is the One I’d Recommend

Telegram retains data necessary for its operations, including metadata like IP addresses. In 2024, the company updated its privacy policy to clarify that it can disclose IP addresses and phone numbers of rule violators to law enforcement upon valid legal requests. This resulted in Telegram fulfilling 900 information requests from U.S. authorities in 2024, affecting 2,253 individuals. Telegram has experienced data breaches, including a 2020 incident where 42 million Iranian users had their data compromised and a 2019 vulnerability exploited by Chinese agencies affecting protestor identities in Hong Kong. The platform allows users to create public channels for sharing content, but these channels are not end-to-end encrypted. Telegram offers secret chats that are end-to-end encrypted, but they are limited to the device of origin. The app allows for automatic message deletion, with a minimum interval of one day, and features a self-destruct option for accounts after a period of inactivity. Telegram's client applications are open-source, while its server-side code is closed-source. The company operates on a freemium model, offering a paid tier for enhanced features. Telegram is available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Winsage

June 22, 2025

Microsoft to stop pushing older Windows 11 drivers through Windows Update

Microsoft is implementing a policy change in Windows Update that will no longer display older legacy drivers when a newer version is available. This update is being rolled out but does not affect the replacement of newer drivers manually installed from Intel, AMD, or Nvidia. The initiative is described as a “periodic cleanup of drivers from Windows Update,” primarily targeting OEMs. When a driver expires and a newer version exists, the older driver will be removed from Windows Update listings. This cleanup focuses on legacy drivers, and while users may not notice significant changes, it aims to streamline the update process. Future expansions may include expired drivers without replacements, but currently, the focus is on legacy drivers with available updates. OEMs can republish expired drivers with justification. The policy will not resolve issues where manually installed drivers are replaced by older versions via Windows Update, as Windows Update drivers may have higher version numbers despite being older. The policy does not affect users on unsupported hardware, as a driver is only marked as “expired” when a new replacement is available.

AppWizard

June 17, 2025

Sony Rolling Back Controversial First-Party Games Policy

Sony is reportedly lifting regional restrictions on its first-party PC games available on Steam, which previously required a PlayStation Network (PSN) account, limiting access for gamers in over 100 countries. Titles affected include God of War Ragnarok, The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, and Helldivers 2. The recent release of Days Gone Remastered, which did not impose regional restrictions, suggests a broader policy shift. The PSN requirement has faced backlash, notably during the launch of Helldivers 2, leading to controversy and the dismissal of the game’s community manager. Additionally, the title Stellar Blade was initially unavailable in 132 countries due to the PSN requirement, but this restriction was lifted after discussions with Sony. An official statement from Sony regarding the removal of the PSN requirement has yet to be issued.

BetaBeacon

April 30, 2025

Epic Games store challenges mobile monopolies

- Flappy Bird has made a comeback exclusively for Android users through the Epic Games store, developed by Flappy Bird Publishing. - The game includes Classic mode and a new Quest mode with unlockable worlds and obstacles. - Epic Games Store has struggled to meet installation goals, achieving fewer than 30 million installs out of a goal of 100 million by the end of 2024. - Alternative marketplaces on iPhones are needed to increase competition and benefit consumers through improved pricing and innovation.