privacy Archives

Winsage

July 31, 2025

9 new features that arrived on the Windows 11 Insider Program during the second half of July 2025

During July 2025, Microsoft released seven preview builds for Windows 11, including updates from version branches 24H2 and 25H2, and builds 27913, 27909, and 27902 in the Canary Channel, with build 27902's ISO file available for download. Key enhancements included: 1. Click to Do improvements allowing image descriptions on AMD and Intel devices, previously exclusive to Qualcomm Snapdragon. 2. Windows Narrator now generates detailed descriptions of images, charts, and graphs for Intel and AMD processors. 3. A new "Recent activity" feature in the Privacy & security section lets users monitor third-party app access to AI functionalities. 4. AI agent functionality is being gradually introduced in the Settings app, starting with the August 2025 Security Update. 5. The Second Chance Out-of-Box Experience page has consolidated recommendations into a single interface. 6. Windows Search is testing a grid view for image search results. 7. The Notification Center now supports a fly-out from secondary monitors, displaying a full clock. 8. Task Manager has reintroduced a view showing processor usage metrics across various pages, with an option to revert to legacy metrics.

AppWizard

July 31, 2025

Tea dating app disables messaging after investigation reveals leak of direct messages

The dating advice app Tea has temporarily disabled its messaging feature due to a data breach that compromised over 13,000 user images and an additional 59,000 images, including direct messages, comments, and posts. The breach occurred last week, leading to unauthorized releases on platforms like 4Chan and social media. Tea has over 1.6 million users and is known for features like background checks and reverse image searches. The company plans to enhance its security measures and will offer complimentary identity protection services to affected users.

AppWizard

July 31, 2025

What You Should Know About Jack Dorsey’s New Messaging App Bitchat

Jack Dorsey launched an open-source messaging app called Bitchat Mesh, or Bitchat, on July 28 through Apple's App Store. The app utilizes Bluetooth for data transmission instead of traditional internet connections and does not use contacts or phone numbers for connectivity, instead forming a Bluetooth mesh network among nearby devices. Each device acts as both a client and server, allowing for communication within the network, which is limited to those in proximity. Users can see the number of connected devices and send private messages, while main chat messages are visible to all within the network. Bitchat includes features like blocking users and sending playful notifications. Despite being open-source, the app has not undergone a third-party security audit, and users have been cautioned about potential vulnerabilities. Dorsey implemented the Noise Protocol Framework for end-to-end encryption but advised against using the app for production purposes until it receives an external security review.

Tech Optimizer

July 31, 2025

Malwarebytes 5.3.5.204

Malwarebytes has launched version 5.xx of its anti-malware application, enhancing its capabilities to provide a robust alternative to traditional antivirus solutions. The new version features a unified user experience across desktop and mobile platforms, modern security and privacy integrations including an ultra-fast VPN, and a Trusted Advisor feature that offers real-time insights and guidance. The changelog for version 5.3.5.204 includes the introduction of a Deep Scan, a preview of the new Windows Firewall Control feature, a revamped Dashboard layout for the free version, and fixes for minor usability and localization issues. The software is available for download at 397.0 MB, with both free and paid upgrade options.

Tech Optimizer

July 31, 2025

Mac Antivirus Battle: Independent Tests Crown Avast Best Protection Against Rising Malware Threats

Software Experts has recognized Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate as top malware protection solutions for Mac users. This acknowledgment comes amid rising cybersecurity threats targeting Apple devices. Avast is known for its comprehensive digital protection, offering antivirus, privacy, and performance tools. Despite macOS's built-in security features, experts recommend third-party protection due to increasing cyber threats. In its 2025 analysis, Software Experts evaluated Avast's performance in malware protection, usability, real-world effectiveness, and feature set, with Avast excelling in all areas. Avast Premium Security includes defenses against viruses, spyware, ransomware, and phishing threats, featuring real-time malware detection and alerts for insecure Wi-Fi networks. The newly introduced Scam Guardian Pro enhances protection against online scams with AI-driven tools. Avast Ultimate extends its offerings to a multi-device solution, including a VPN, device performance optimizer, and anti-tracking tool. In 2024, AV-Test awarded Avast the Best macOS Security Award for Consumer Users, and AV-Comparatives recognized it as a Top-Rated Product in 2023. Avast's Ransomware Shield protects personal files from unauthorized modifications, and both products are available as single-device or multi-device subscriptions. Avast's Stay Safe Virus Guarantee provides virus removal support and a refund if malware cannot be eliminated. The review emphasizes the need for reliable cybersecurity software as online threats evolve, highlighting Avast's combination of antivirus protection, privacy tools, and device optimization.

AppWizard

July 30, 2025

Tea app hacked: private messages stolen

Messaging capabilities on the women's dating safety app, Tea, have been suspended due to a cybersecurity breach that compromised thousands of images, posts, comments, and direct messages. The company reported that some direct messages were accessed during the incident, which was first disclosed in late July. Tea has 1.6 million users and is investigating the breach, offering free identity protection services to affected users. Some exposed messages contained sensitive discussions, raising concerns about potential risks such as blackmail. The breach involved the hacking of 72,000 images, including those with users' photo IDs, despite the app's claim of immediate deletion after authentication. The incident affects members who registered before February 2024.

Winsage

July 29, 2025

Windows 10 turns 10: No compatibility chaos

Windows 10 was launched as a response to the mixed reception of Windows 8, aiming to provide a stable and reliable alternative. It offered improved performance on solid-state drives compared to Windows 7, although it did not achieve the same affection. The development included the Windows Insider program for user feedback, but responsiveness to that feedback was inconsistent. The operating system faced issues, such as the problematic October 2018 Update that deleted user files. Windows 10 Mobile, launched alongside, quickly faded due to lack of interest. The desktop version thrived, aided by a free upgrade offer and hardware compatibility. Privacy concerns arose due to telemetry and data collection practices. Microsoft replaced Internet Explorer with the Edge browser, which later adopted the Chromium engine. Despite challenges, Windows 10 maintained a strong presence in the desktop market, proving to be a stabilizing force for Microsoft after Windows 8.

AppWizard

July 29, 2025

Tea app takes messaging system offline after second security issue reported

Tea, a dating discussion app, experienced a cybersecurity breach that compromised some direct messages (DMs) and exposed approximately 72,000 images, including 13,000 selfies and photo IDs. An independent security researcher found a vulnerability allowing unauthorized access to sensitive messages discussing private topics. The company confirmed that no email addresses or phone numbers were compromised and that only users registered before February 2024 were affected.

AppWizard

July 29, 2025

Tea app takes messaging system offline after DMs exposed in security…

Tea, a dating discussion app, has temporarily taken its messaging system offline following a cybersecurity incident that exposed some users' direct messages. The company announced this precautionary measure to safeguard user information and is conducting a thorough investigation into the breach. Users can still access other functionalities of the app while the messaging feature remains unavailable. Tea's management is working to restore the messaging system once a secure environment is ensured.

AppWizard

July 29, 2025

Twitter co-founder and former CEO Jack Dorsey’s Bluetooth messaging app now available on App Store – The Times of India

Jack Dorsey has launched BitChat, a Bluetooth-based messaging application now available on the Apple App Store, enabling offline communication without cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity. The app allows users to connect with nearby individuals by simply launching it, setting a display name, and messaging anyone within Bluetooth range (up to 100 meters). BitChat facilitates encrypted communication through local Bluetooth clusters, with messages relayed between devices and stored only on individual devices, ensuring privacy. It includes features such as optional group chats secured with passwords and a "store and forward" capability for offline users. Future updates may introduce Wi-Fi Direct to improve speed and range. BitChat operates on a peer-to-peer basis without accounts or data collection, distinguishing it from mainstream messaging platforms.