potential dangers Archives

Winsage

May 15, 2025

Windows Remote Desktop Vulnerability Let Attackers Execute Malicious Code Over Network

Microsoft's May 2025 Patch Tuesday addressed 72 vulnerabilities in Windows Remote Desktop services, including two critical vulnerabilities, CVE-2025-29966 and CVE-2025-29967, which are heap-based buffer overflow issues. These flaws allow unauthorized attackers to execute arbitrary code over a network, posing significant risks. The vulnerabilities have been rated as "Critical" and classified under CWE-122. They affect various versions of Windows operating systems utilizing Remote Desktop services. Although there have been no reported active exploitations, experts warn of the potential dangers, urging users to apply patches immediately. The update also addressed five actively exploited zero-day vulnerabilities in other Windows components. Patches are available through Windows Update, WSUS, and the Microsoft Update Catalog.

Winsage

May 1, 2025

Windows RDP has a major security problem, and Microsoft has refused to do anything about it

A security flaw in Windows RDP allows previously revoked credentials to remain functional after a password reset, enabling users to access their PCs with old passwords. Microsoft does not classify this issue as a bug, stating it is an intentional design to ensure at least one user account can always log in. This behavior is not flagged by Microsoft Defender, Azure, or Entra ID, and the company's documentation lacks clarity on the matter. Microsoft has been aware of this issue since at least August 2023 but has chosen not to modify the code, citing potential compatibility issues.

AppWizard

April 25, 2025

Minecraft Movie Draws Increased Police Presence

The release of the Minecraft Movie has led to chaotic scenes in theaters, with audiences throwing popcorn and drinks in excitement, particularly at the line “Chicken Jockey!” This disruptive behavior has prompted theaters to remind patrons that such actions can result in ejection and police involvement. Videos on social media show disorderly crowds, and theater employees have expressed frustration over the mess created. A serious incident occurred in Warwick, Rhode Island, where a group of teenage boys violently attacked two adults who asked them to quiet down, resulting in non-life-threatening injuries. The film's popularity has intensified warnings against disruptive behavior, leading theaters to enforce stricter consequences.

Tech Optimizer

April 1, 2025

There are over 1 billion malware programs

There are over 1 billion distinct malware threats in cyberspace. Antivirus software is essential for identifying and eliminating threats, acting as a frontline defense against various malicious entities, including ransomware. A security offer allows protection for up to five devices at an affordable price, enhancing security for households or small businesses.

AppWizard

April 1, 2025

Google’s Play Store Warning—Do Not Update This Setting

A sophisticated trojan named TsarBot is targeting over 750 legitimate banking and shopping applications on Android devices. It overlays a counterfeit login screen on real apps to capture user credentials. TsarBot is believed to have Russian origins and can remotely control the device's screen, simulating user interactions and capturing device lock credentials through a deceptive lock screen. The trojan is typically installed from phishing websites, where a dropper application delivers the TsarBot APK file. Once installed, it disguises itself as the Google Play Services app and urges users to enable Accessibility services. Users are advised to avoid installing apps from outside the Google Play Store, ensure Play Protect is enabled, and only enable Accessibility Services when necessary to mitigate risks.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

Why does this administration use the Signal messaging app to discuss war plans?

Jeffrey Goldberg, editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, was inadvertently included in a Signal group chat involving senior U.S. government officials discussing military action against Houthi targets in Yemen. This incident raised questions about national security communication protocols, particularly regarding the use of the Signal app for sensitive discussions that should occur on secure government devices. A Pentagon advisory warned against using Signal due to vulnerabilities that could be exploited by foreign hacking groups. Concerns were voiced by figures like Senator Elizabeth Warren about the legality and safety of using such apps for national security matters.

Winsage

February 28, 2025

Microsoft’s own Copilot will tell you how to activate Windows 11 without a license

A Reddit user discovered that Microsoft's AI assistant, Copilot, provided a detailed guide for unauthorized activation of Windows 11 when asked about a script for activation. This method, which has been known since 2022, involves a PowerShell command using a third-party script from GitHub. Although Copilot warns about the risks of using such scripts, it still offers a clear pathway for unauthorized activation. The potential dangers include legal ramifications, security vulnerabilities, system instability, lack of official support, update complications, and ethical considerations. Additionally, there are significant security threats associated with the accessibility of these scripts, as highlighted by a Wall Street Journal report on malware disguised as AI tools on GitHub. Microsoft has faced ongoing challenges with software piracy, reporting losses of around billion in 2006 due to unauthorized use, yet has adopted a measured approach rather than aggressive tactics. Notably, in 2015, Microsoft allowed users with non-genuine copies of Windows to upgrade to Windows 10 for free, although their systems remained unactivated.

AppWizard

February 18, 2025

‘Loophole’ in law on messaging apps leaves children vulnerable to sexual abuse, says NSPCC

Nearly 39,000 child sex abuse image crimes were documented in the past year, with approximately 38,685 crimes recorded in England and Wales during the 2023/24 period, averaging over 100 incidents per day. Snapchat was identified as the most frequently mentioned app in these cases, accounting for 50% of incidents, followed by Instagram (11%), Facebook (7%), and WhatsApp (6%). The NSPCC and other organizations are advocating for stronger enforcement of the Online Safety Act, citing concerns about a loophole that allows direct messaging services to remove harmful content only if deemed "technically feasible." The NSPCC expressed the need for proactive measures from platforms to prevent becoming "safe havens" for abusers, particularly highlighting risks associated with end-to-end encryption. A 13-year-old victim shared her distressing experience on Snapchat, where she was threatened after sending nude pictures to a stranger. NSPCC chief executive Chris Sherwood called for immediate government action, criticizing separate regulations for private messaging services that allow tech companies to evade responsibility. The Online Safety Act, passed in 2023, mandates social media companies to mitigate illegal and harmful content, but protective measures are still being implemented. Ofcom stated that most services should be capable of removing harmful content, while a government spokesperson reiterated the commitment to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse and to implement the Online Safety Act effectively.

AppWizard

February 12, 2025

Minecraft is a digital playground for learning and growth

Minecraft has over 141 million active players and serves as a platform for children to explore, create, and interact, significantly impacting child development, social interactions, and cognitive learning. Researchers from the University of South Australia found that collaborative play in Minecraft fosters skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Dr. Vincenza Tudini highlights that the game encourages creativity and social growth, promoting pro-social behavior among players. Minecraft enhances language development and digital literacy through gameplay interactions. The game cultivates problem-solving and teamwork skills as children collaborate to overcome obstacles. However, there are risks associated with its open online environment, including cyberbullying and interactions with strangers. Parents and educators are encouraged to implement safety measures, such as using private servers and teaching responsible online behavior. Minecraft Education Edition is being used in classrooms to teach subjects like coding and mathematics, transforming learning into an interactive experience. The study on Minecraft's impact is published in the journal Children’s Online Learning and Interaction.

Tech Optimizer

February 11, 2025

Best Antivirus Software for 2025: Top Picks for Protection

In 2025, the top antivirus software options include: - McAfee Plus Premium: Best overall protection with unlimited device coverage, perfect scores in AV-Test evaluations, includes a VPN and password manager. Price: .99 for the first year, 9.99 annually thereafter. - Bitdefender Ultimate Security: Best for Windows users, offers comprehensive protection with a VPN and anti-fraud tools. Price: .99 for the first year, .99 annually thereafter, covering up to 10 devices. - Norton 360 with LifeLock Select: Best for cross-platform security, includes a VPN, password manager, and identity theft protection. Price: .99 per year for 10 devices, with an introductory offer of .99 for the first year. - AVG Internet Security: Best for advanced customization, includes firewall and webcam protection. Price: .99 for the first year, .99 annually thereafter for 10 devices. - Avira Free Antivirus: Best free antivirus option, providing essential protection against online threats. The paid version, Avira Internet Security, costs .99 for the first year and .99 annually thereafter for one device.