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Tech Optimizer

November 8, 2024

New malware SteelFox targets Windows users through fake software activators

A new malware named "SteelFox" is targeting Windows users by using counterfeit software activators to infiltrate systems, leading to cryptocurrency mining and data theft. Since February 2023, it has spread rapidly, primarily through torrent sites and online forums, masquerading as legitimate software cracks for programs like AutoCAD and Foxit PDF Editor. Upon installation, it deploys a risky driver called WinRingO.sys, exploiting vulnerabilities CVE-2021-41285 and CVE-2020-14979, which allows attackers to gain full access to the infected computer. The malware uses XMRig for crypto mining, causing performance issues and increased utility bills, while also stealing sensitive data from over 13 web browsers. Countries with high infection rates include Mexico, Brazil, Russia, China, and India. Kaspersky has blocked over 11,000 attempted attacks, but the actual number of infections may be much higher. To protect against SteelFox, users are advised to download software only from verified sources, maintain updated antivirus software, avoid pirated software, and keep systems current with security patches.

Winsage

November 8, 2024

AI Has Come for Sweet, Innocent Notepad

Notepad has introduced a new feature called Rewrite, powered by Microsoft's GPT AI model, which allows users to rephrase sentences, adjust tone, and modify text length. Users can access this feature by highlighting text and selecting the Rewrite option from the context menu or using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + I. The feature generates three variations of the modified text based on user-selected options. Currently, it is available to Windows Insiders in the Canary and Dev channels of Windows 11, specifically in the U.S., France, the UK, Canada, Italy, and Germany, with additional access for Microsoft 365 and Copilot Pro subscribers in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan. Users need to sign in with their Microsoft accounts and have credits to use the GPT model, starting with 50 complimentary credits. Microsoft Paint has also been updated with AI features, including Generative Fill and Generative Erase tools.

Winsage

November 8, 2024

Watch out, Windows Notepad users: Here comes AI

Microsoft has introduced an AI-powered Rewrite feature for Notepad, available to Windows Insiders running Windows 11. Users need the latest Canary or Dev build of Windows 11 and must be signed in with a Microsoft account linked to the Insider program to access the feature. The Rewrite process allows users to modify text by selecting it and using the Rewrite button or shortcut Ctrl + I, generating three distinct versions of the text. AI credits are required for content generation, with initial allocations set at 50 credits for users in select countries and 60 credits monthly for Microsoft 365 subscribers. The Rewrite feature is currently limited to Dev or Canary builds of Windows 11 and may take time to reach the standard version of Notepad.

Winsage

November 8, 2024

Qualcomm triples Windows on Arm OEM design wins since May

Qualcomm's CEO Cristiano R. Amon announced a significant increase in design wins for the Snapdragon X Plus eight-core platform, rising from 20 to 58 in six months. This reflects growing interest among OEMs in Arm-based Windows laptops. However, Qualcomm faces challenges in converting these design wins into consumer sales due to compatibility issues and performance concerns. Intel and AMD continue to dominate the market with hundreds of design wins annually. Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus platform offers AI capabilities, 5G connectivity, and improved battery life, but software compatibility remains a challenge. In Q4 2024, Qualcomm reported revenue of .2 billion, a 19% year-on-year increase, and a net income of .92 billion, a 96% rise. Over the fiscal year, revenue increased 9% to .9 billion, and net profit surged 40% to .14 billion.

Tech Optimizer

November 7, 2024

4 reasons why Windows Security alone isn’t enough to protect your PC

Microsoft's Windows Security suite, also known as Windows Defender, has evolved since 2006 into a more robust security tool. However, it has limitations: 1. Web protection is limited to Microsoft Edge, with the SmartScreen feature not available for Chrome or Firefox users. 2. There is no built-in VPN; a VPN service is only available through a paid Microsoft 365 subscription with a 50 GB monthly data cap. 3. It lacks an integrated password manager, leaving users to rely on third-party solutions for password management. 4. For business users, it does not provide endpoint protection or automated response capabilities, which are essential for recovering from attacks like ransomware or DDoS. Microsoft offers Defender for Endpoint as a paid service, but many businesses may still need third-party antivirus solutions for comprehensive protection.

AppWizard

November 7, 2024

A decade and $22 billion later, Meta’s big bet on messaging is finally starting to pay off

Meta's investment in WhatsApp has begun yielding substantial returns, with a 48% year-over-year increase in non-advertising revenue reported in Q3, largely due to WhatsApp's business messaging capabilities. This product enables companies to engage in paid conversations with customers, contributing to revenue growth since Q3 2022. Non-advertising revenue in Q3 was million, compared to .9 billion in ad revenue, but is growing at over twice the pace of advertising. Messaging products, including WhatsApp, Messenger, and Instagram Direct, are still in the early stages of monetization, with estimates suggesting messaging could account for around 10% of Meta's total revenue. A significant increase in content shared through direct messages has been noted, with a 100% year-over-year rise. Meta is also exploring revenue opportunities through sponsored messages and "click-to-message" ads. Generative AI is expected to enhance the messaging business's efficiency and potential revenue generation. User behavior is shifting towards sharing in direct messages rather than traditional feeds, prompting Meta to enhance its Messenger app with new features. Each messaging product serves different user bases and presents unique monetization opportunities.

Tech Optimizer

November 5, 2024

Exclusive: Supabase, a Postgres-centric developer platform, raises $80M Series C

Supabase has secured a million Series C funding round, led by Peak XV and Craft Ventures, bringing its total capital raised to 6 million. The company previously raised a million Series B round in 2022. Co-founder and CEO Paul Copplestone confirmed an upward trend in valuation but did not disclose the exact figure. Supabase's demand is linked to the AI boom, with about 10% of its active databases used for AI applications. The platform is popular among startups, with 40% of the latest Y Combinator class using it, and notable organizations like GitHub Next, Meta, Netflix, and Microsoft have integrated it into their projects. Supabase recently declared its service as “generally available” to support enterprise needs. The company offers six products: Database, Storage, Authentication, Edge Functions, Vector, and Realtime. The Series C funding round included participation from Avra Capital and previous investors Coatue, Felicis, and Y Combinator. Supabase has over 900,000 sign-ups in four years, indicating significant organic adoption among developers.

Tech Optimizer

November 3, 2024

The best antivirus software for Mac

All products featured are independently selected, and Mashable may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on their site. Macs are not immune to viruses; they are more secure than Windows but still vulnerable to attacks. Investing in antivirus software is recommended for Mac users. The rate of malware targeting Macs has surpassed that of PCs. Malware includes various harmful software types, while a virus is a specific type of malware that replicates itself. Infections can occur from emails, social media links, and downloads. Ransomware locks users out of systems until a ransom is paid. Password managers help generate and store unique passwords, enhancing security. The best antivirus software for Macs varies based on usage patterns, and research has been conducted to evaluate leading antivirus solutions for effectiveness and additional security features.

Tech Optimizer

November 3, 2024

The best antivirus software options

All products featured are independently selected by editors and writers, and Mashable may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on their site. Antivirus software is designed to identify and eliminate viruses and malware, preventing potential damage to devices. Malware is a broad category that includes viruses, which are a subset of malware. Computer viruses replicate and spread across devices, infecting applications and emails, and can cause various types of damage. Anti-malware software offers broader protection against a variety of attacks compared to antivirus software. Key features to consider when selecting antivirus software include phishing protection, spyware and adware scanning, on-demand malware scans, and vulnerability scanning. It is advisable to upgrade from pre-installed antivirus software to more advanced solutions. Investing in quality antivirus software is important for protecting computers and sensitive data.

Winsage

November 3, 2024

Is It Goodbye to Copilot? Introducing Windows Intelligence!

Microsoft is launching a new AI initiative called "Windows Intelligence" to unify its AI features within Windows 11. Recent updates to the Windows 11 codebase suggest that the existing AI feature, Copilot, along with other tools, will be integrated into this new framework. The branding of "Windows Intelligence" is similar to Apple's AI branding, indicating a competitive stance against Apple. Copilot will not be phased out but will receive enhancements, including a new interface and tailored recommendations. Other tools like Click to Do and Recall will also evolve under this initiative. The goal is to enhance user interaction and create a more intuitive experience within the Windows ecosystem.