PowerShell Archives

Winsage

June 24, 2026

Windows RAT Uses Encrypted HTTP C2 and Registry Persistence After npm Infection

A malware campaign targets Windows systems through a malicious npm package named postcss-minify-selector-parser, which mimics the legitimate postcss-selector-parser. This counterfeit package installs a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) on developer machines, beginning with a multi-stage attack triggered by the installation of the package. The RAT can steal credentials, execute shell commands, and communicate with a remote attacker. Security researchers at JFrog identified this threat and reported it on June 22, 2026, noting that two additional related packages, postcss-minify-selector and aes-decode-runner-pro, are linked to the same publisher and remain live on the npm registry. The RAT employs encrypted HTTP communication with a command-and-control (C2) server and ensures persistence by creating a registry key under the Windows Run key. It has capabilities for remote shell execution, file uploads and downloads, and can steal saved login data from Google Chrome using Windows decryption APIs. The malware is designed for organized batch exfiltration of stolen data. Indicators of compromise include specific IP addresses, domains, file paths, and SHA-256 hashes associated with the malware components. JFrog advises users to remove the malicious packages, inspect their dependency trees, and treat any stored credentials as compromised.

Winsage

June 22, 2026

MSYS2 And The No-Fuss Way To Get More GNU Into Your Windows

The Windows desktop experience has a streamlined interface, but its command line interface (CLI) offerings, particularly the cmd.exe shell, have been criticized for lacking the features found in UNIX/BSD/Linux environments. Microsoft’s transition to PowerShell has disappointed users who prefer a more traditional CLI experience. Despite Windows NT operating systems being POSIX compliant, they have historically lacked a suitable shell. MSYS2 provides a solution by offering a Linux-like experience with a Bash shell and the pacman package manager, allowing users to run shell scripts and access various tools. However, binaries compiled in MSYS2 may depend on shared libraries not included in the Windows system path. Upon installation, users can choose from different terminal options, with the UCRT terminal recommended for its usability. MSYS2 facilitates a streamlined development workflow, enabling the use of familiar tools across multiple platforms, but it does not achieve perfect integration within Windows and has some limitations, such as issues with stdout output in Bash.

Winsage

June 19, 2026

Microsoft Details Windows Clipper Malware Campaign Using USB LNK Worm and Tor-Based C2

Microsoft has identified a Windows-based cryptocurrency clipper campaign that has been active since February 2026. This campaign uses clipboard-intercepting malware with self-spreading capabilities and operates through the Tor network. The clipper malware employs Windows Script Host and ActiveX to launch a Tor proxy and connect to a hidden command-and-control server. It focuses on stealing clipboard data, particularly cryptocurrency wallet addresses, and can exfiltrate screenshots. The malware is distributed via malicious Windows Shortcut (LNK) files on USB drives, which activate a worm that checks for existing infections and fetches the payload from a remote server. The clipper monitors the clipboard every 500 milliseconds for sensitive information and can replace copied wallet addresses with those controlled by attackers. Microsoft recommends behavioral detections, disabling AutoRun for removable media, blocking LNK execution from drives, and monitoring clipboard-related activities as mitigations against this threat.

Winsage

June 19, 2026

MacBook Neo vs Windows Laptops for Cybersecurity Tasks

The laptop has evolved into a crucial tool for cybersecurity, serving as a workstation for malware analysis and daily operations. A debate exists between the merits of MacBook Neo and Windows-based models, with Windows offering flexibility and compatibility, while macOS is favored for stability and build quality. Popular penetration testing tools are available on both platforms, but Windows laptops have an advantage due to better integration with x86 environments and specialized drivers. Virtualization is essential in cybersecurity, and Windows laptops with higher RAM provide a better experience for running multiple virtual machines compared to the non-upgradable RAM of the MacBook Neo. Intensive tasks can strain systems, necessitating efficient resource management, especially on the MacBook Neo. Most malware is designed for Windows, making it crucial for analysts to be familiar with Windows-specific tools and features. The MacBook Neo is beneficial for tasks like working with event logs and writing automation scripts, while its battery life and mobility are advantageous for professionals on the go. Security considerations play a significant role in the choice of operating system, with Windows being a common target for attackers, whereas macOS has stricter access controls. Windows laptops offer more price flexibility and upgradeability, while the MacBook Neo focuses on simplicity and build quality but lacks upgrade options. Ultimately, Windows is optimal for tasks involving malware analysis and virtual labs, while the MacBook Neo suits those focused on development and network analysis.

Winsage

June 18, 2026

I discovered a dead‑simple way to remember Windows 11 shortcuts, and it changed how I use the OS

The Microsoft team behind PowerToys has released an updated Shortcut Guide in version 0.100 for Windows 11, which now appears as a context-sensitive flyout instead of a static reference page. This guide provides relevant keyboard shortcuts based on the application currently in use, improving user efficiency and learning. Users can access the Shortcut Guide by installing PowerToys and can customize its settings, including color theme and activation shortcut. The guide displays shortcuts for various applications and includes a list of Windows 11 and PowerToys shortcuts when no applications are focused. Developers can integrate their apps into the Shortcut Guide as well.

Winsage

June 15, 2026

Microsoft released the Windows 11 Secure Boot update for all PCs, how to verify yours

Microsoft has expanded the rollout of the Secure Boot 2023 certificate update to more Windows 11 and Windows 10 devices with the June 2026 Patch Tuesday update (KB5094126). This update aims to ensure that most supported consumer PCs are classified as high confidence, meaning necessary certificates are either installed or will be applied automatically. Secure Boot is a firmware security feature that verifies the software attempting to load during the startup process, blocking unauthorized software. The certificates supporting Secure Boot, issued in 2011, are expiring in stages starting June 24, 2026, prompting Microsoft to deploy replacement certificates. Most home users do not need to take manual action as the updates will occur automatically via Windows Update. Users can check their Secure Boot certificate status in the Windows Security app. A yellow warning indicates pending compatibility data, while a red alert suggests a firmware incompatibility requiring a BIOS update. Multiple reboots during the update process are normal, and a new SecureBoot folder in Windows is for staging cryptographic files. Older PCs may experience longer update times, and some may not receive updates due to firmware issues. HP users should check for BIOS updates if encountering BitLocker recovery loops. IT administrators should monitor device classifications and manually initiate updates for devices not in the high confidence category. Devices with Secure Boot disabled cannot receive updates, leaving them vulnerable. The expiration of the Microsoft Corporation KEK CA 2011 certificate on June 24 does not immediately affect device functionality, but it limits Microsoft's ability to sign new bootkit blacklist updates.

Winsage

June 14, 2026

Windows 11 KB5094126 crashes some PCs (HP?) with BSODs, breaks OneDrive in File Explorer, enterprise apps

Windows 11 KB5094126, released on June 9, 2026, is a significant update that introduces new features, including the Low Latency Profile, and addresses up to 200 security vulnerabilities. However, it has caused boot failures for some HP devices, particularly the HP EliteBook 840 G10, leading to BSODs or BitLocker Recovery prompts. The update may conflict with specific BIOS configurations or EFI/System partition settings, especially on devices with older EFI partitions. Users experiencing boot failures may need to disable Secure Boot as a temporary workaround. Additionally, the update has disrupted OneDrive integration in File Explorer, preventing access from the left pane and tray icon, although users can still access cloud folders directly. Similar issues have been reported with Dropbox and iCloud Drive. The update has also affected Microsoft Word integration in various business applications, leading to failures in document handling. Furthermore, changes to desktop.ini files have impacted custom folder icons, requiring users to unblock these files to restore functionality.

Winsage

June 11, 2026

“It is intentional” Microsoft says Windows 11’s broken folder icons are by design. Here’s what’s going on.

In the June 2026 Security Update for Windows 11 and Windows 10, Microsoft implemented a change that prevents custom folder icons and localized folder names from appearing if derived from an untrusted "desktop.ini" file. Users may initially perceive this as a bug, as folders may revert to default settings without user intervention. To maintain customizations, organizations should add trusted sources to the "Trusted Sites" list via Control Panel. Businesses can enable the "Allow the use of remote paths in file shortcut icons" policy through the Group Policy Editor, although this may reduce security. Users can also remove the Mark-of-the-Web tag from trusted "desktop.ini" files using PowerShell commands. This update reflects a broader trend of prioritizing security over customization in the operating system.

AppWizard

June 10, 2026

France’s Government Messaging App Tchap Got Breached

On June 7, 2026, Tchap, the French government's encrypted messaging platform for civil servants, experienced a significant breach detected by ANSSI. The breach resulted from a compromised user account and involved the education shard of Tchap, specifically targeting matrix.agent.education.tchap.gouv.fr. Approximately 650,000 messages, data from over 73,000 accounts, and about 13.5GB of documents and media files were allegedly scraped. The attacker also claimed to have discovered hardcoded LDAP credentials leaked through a PowerShell script shared by a regional director of the French tax authority. DINUM, the French Digital Affairs Directorate, stated that private conversations on Tchap are end-to-end encrypted and that the compromised account has been blocked. They notified CNIL about the potential exposure of personal data and reminded users to avoid sharing sensitive information in public chat rooms. The breach follows a mandate from Prime Minister François Bayrou in August 2025 requiring all civil servants to use Tchap, increasing its attractiveness as a target for cyber threats. The investigation into the breach is ongoing.

Tech Optimizer

June 9, 2026

Fake ChatGPT download site infects Windows and Mac users with malware

A counterfeit website, openew[.]app, is impersonating OpenAI's official ChatGPT download page and distributing malware. Windows users who download from this site receive a credential-stealing malware loader, while macOS users are infected with Odyssey Stealer, a variant associated with cryptocurrency theft. The fake site mimics the legitimate ChatGPT interface and uses HTTPS to appear trustworthy. The Windows malware, Chat_GPT.exe, creates a back channel to an attacker-controlled server, while the macOS malware captures sensitive data and attempts to replace legitimate cryptocurrency wallet applications with compromised versions. Users who download from official sources remain safe, but those who click on ads or unfamiliar links risk compromising their online accounts and sensitive information. Malwarebytes offers protection against this malware. Indicators of compromise include specific file hashes and network indicators associated with the malicious site.