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Security updates Windows no longer require frequent reboots
Winsage
May 6, 2026

Security updates Windows no longer require frequent reboots

Since early May 2026, a U.S. company has introduced Hotpatching technology for compatible devices, allowing security updates to be applied without a full system reboot. This technology replaces code fragments directly in the RAM of running processes, reducing the size of downloaded packages and enabling quicker implementation of critical patches. The update mechanism operates on a hybrid schedule with four base months requiring mandatory reboots for cumulative changes and eight hotpatching months focusing on in-memory security fixes. If extensive architectural changes are needed or if the software environment does not meet standards, the system defaults to a standard installation algorithm that requires a reboot. The technology is designed for corporate infrastructures with high operational demands and requires Windows 11 version 24H2 or later, specific editions, and enabled VBS virtualization protection.
I tested AVG antivirus. It's proof great AV doesn't need to be pricey
Tech Optimizer
May 6, 2026

I tested AVG antivirus. It’s proof great AV doesn’t need to be pricey

The cost of AVG Internet Security includes a single-device plan starting at a specified amount for the first year, which then increases to a higher annual fee, and a multi-device plan for up to ten devices that starts at a different amount for the first year and rises to a specified annual fee thereafter. The multi-device option allows sharing among family members. AVG Internet Security adds five features to its free antivirus: password protection, webcam safeguards, monitoring for unauthorized file access, defense against malicious website redirects, and protection against remote desktop protocol attacks. It does not include a VPN, which requires an upgrade or separate purchase. The installation process is straightforward, with a user-friendly dashboard. Users can initiate scans easily and choose from various scan types. AVG excels in real-time protection, scanning files upon access and monitoring applications for unusual behavior, including ransomware protection. As of 2025, users must set their own scheduled scans. AVG offers a secure browser during installation and a data shredder feature, though its effectiveness may vary. Customer support includes online chat, phone assistance, and comprehensive support pages. AVG Internet Security has received high marks for performance, detecting 100% of threats in controlled tests while minimally impacting system resources during regular use.
Android Apps Get Public Verification System to Stop Supply Chain Attacks
AppWizard
May 6, 2026

Android Apps Get Public Verification System to Stop Supply Chain Attacks

Google has launched an enhanced Binary Transparency initiative for Android to strengthen the ecosystem against supply chain attacks. This initiative builds on the Pixel Binary Transparency framework introduced in October 2021, which ensures Pixel devices operate on verified OS software through a public cryptographic log of factory images. The new initiative aims to address the increasing sophistication of binary supply chain attacks, emphasizing that a binary's digital signature alone is insufficient for guaranteeing its authenticity. Starting May 1, 2026, all production Android applications released by Google will include a cryptographic entry confirming their authenticity. This initiative covers various Google applications and provides a transparent 'Source of Truth' for users to verify the software on their devices. Google is also offering verification tools for users and researchers to confirm the transparency state of supported software types, enhancing user privacy and security.
Intego ONE
Tech Optimizer
May 5, 2026

Intego ONE

Intego has released Intego ONE, a rebranded antivirus solution for Mac users that combines antivirus capabilities with a firewall. The product has received a 97.1% malware detection score in independent lab tests, although it lacks phishing protection, a feature offered by competitors like Norton and Bitdefender. Intego ONE has a tiered pricing structure, with the Essential tier costing .99 annually and providing antivirus and firewall protection, while the Advanced tier, which includes the SmartClean system cleanup tool, costs .99. The top-tier Complete subscription, which includes a VPN, is priced at .99 annually. Intego offers a 7-day free trial for potential customers. The software installation is straightforward, requiring Full Disk Access for optimal functionality. Intego's firewall is integrated into the main application for easier user interaction. The SmartClean feature aims to optimize system performance but may not justify its additional cost for all users. The VPN included in the Complete tier is user-friendly but may be priced higher than standalone options.
The best mobile antivirus software of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed
Tech Optimizer
May 5, 2026

The best mobile antivirus software of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

Bitdefender Mobile Security is currently regarded as the best mobile antivirus software, achieving a 100% detection rate for malware on Android devices according to AV-TEST's August 2025 report. The 2026 version introduces App Anomaly Detection and includes features like Scam Alert and anti-theft tools. Sophos Intercept X for Mobile offers a free version with a perfect score in AV-TEST's comparisons and features such as multi-factor authentication and a Privacy Advisor. Surfshark Antivirus, part of the Surfshark One package, scored six out of six in AV-TEST's evaluations and includes various security tools, but is only available for Android, macOS, and Windows. Avast Mobile Security is a popular free option with robust features and achieved perfect scores in protection and usability in AV-TEST's September-October 2025 report. AVG Antivirus, operating on the same engine as Avast, also detected 100% of malware in AV-TEST's March-April 2025 evaluations and includes anti-theft tools.
2026 Security Checkup: Bad Medicine ⭐️
Tech Optimizer
May 4, 2026

2026 Security Checkup: Bad Medicine ⭐️

Neil J. Rubenking's article argues against relying solely on Microsoft Defender for antivirus protection, claiming it is inadequate for users managing multiple devices. However, the author contends that Windows Defender provides essential protection with minimal fuss and operates effectively in the background. The article suggests that third-party antivirus solutions are necessary for cross-device management, but the author believes that many devices are inherently secure and that users prefer a straightforward approach to security. The article also states that Defender's phishing protection is limited to Microsoft Edge, while the author points out that most modern browsers have similar protections. Additionally, the critique of Defender for lacking extra features found in third-party applications is countered by the author, who argues that many of those features are unnecessary or redundant. The article mentions the rise of AI-driven scams and suggests that third-party antivirus companies have adapted with specialized tools, but the author believes existing email provider filters are often sufficient. Lastly, while the article critiques Defender's user interface for being less visually appealing, the author emphasizes the importance of functionality over aesthetics. Overall, the author advocates for a streamlined approach to cybersecurity that leverages built-in protections and sound practices.
Microsoft confirms April Windows updates cause backup failures
Winsage
May 4, 2026

Microsoft confirms April Windows updates cause backup failures

Microsoft has acknowledged that the April 2026 security updates have disrupted the functionality of various third-party backup applications using the psmounterex.sys driver, raising concerns among users. The issue primarily affects software leveraging the Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) snapshots, leading to failures due to VSS service timeouts. Notable impacted products include Macrium Reflect, Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud, UrBackup Server, and NinjaOne Backup, used on Windows 11, Windows Server, and Windows 10 devices. Disruptions can manifest as failures to mount backup image files, errors or timeouts when browsing or restoring from backup images, and error messages related to VSS timeouts. Microsoft updated its support documentation to clarify that the April updates included a security hardening change that added psmounterex.sys to the vulnerable driver blocklist to protect against a high-severity buffer overflow vulnerability (CVE-2023-43896). Affected users are advised to upgrade to newer application versions with updated drivers and not to uninstall or pause the security update. Users can check if the Microsoft Vulnerable Driver Blocklist is blocking a driver by looking for Event ID 3077 in the Code Integrity Operational log. Additionally, Microsoft has alerted users that some Windows Server 2025 devices may boot into BitLocker recovery mode after installing the KB5082063 update and has issued out-of-band updates to address installation failures and restart loops affecting Windows Server systems after the April 2026 updates.
Microsoft Defender wrongly flags DigiCert certs as Trojan:Win32/Cerdigent.A!dha
Tech Optimizer
May 4, 2026

Microsoft Defender wrongly flags DigiCert certs as Trojan:Win32/Cerdigent.A!dha

Microsoft Defender mistakenly flagged legitimate DigiCert root certificates as Trojan:Win32/Cerdigent.A!dha, leading to their removal from Windows systems globally. This issue arose after a Defender signature update on April 30th, with affected certificates including 0563B8630D62D75ABBC8AB1E4BDFB5A899B24D43 and DDFB16CD4931C973A2037D3FC83A4D7D775D05E4. The certificates were removed from the AuthRoot store under the Registry key HKLMSOFTWAREMicrosoftSystemCertificatesAuthRootCertificates. Microsoft has addressed the issue in Security Intelligence update version 1.449.430.0, which also restored the removed certificates. The false positives were linked to detections related to a recent DigiCert breach, where threat actors obtained valid code-signing certificates used for signing malware. DigiCert revoked 60 code-signing certificates, including those linked to the "Zhong Stealer" malware campaign. The malware utilized certificates issued to companies like Lenovo and Kingston, but the certificates flagged by Microsoft Defender are root certificates and do not correspond to the revoked code-signing certificates.
I've Tested Every Major Antivirus. Please Don't Rely on Just Microsoft Defender
Tech Optimizer
May 3, 2026

I’ve Tested Every Major Antivirus. Please Don’t Rely on Just Microsoft Defender

Securing all devices with antivirus protection is essential, and while free options can provide adequate defense, Microsoft claims that Microsoft Defender Antivirus is sufficient as the sole line of defense for Windows. Microsoft Defender has evolved since its inception in 1993, but historically it struggled against independent antivirus solutions. Microsoft argues that its telemetry is a better measure of effectiveness than lab scores, highlighting Defender's capabilities against running files, unsafe links, and unauthorized changes. However, it acknowledges that users with multiple devices may need third-party solutions, as Defender does not support non-Windows devices. Defender's phishing protection is limited to the Edge browser, and it lacks many features standard in other free antivirus solutions, such as dark web monitoring and VPN protection. Additionally, it does not utilize Windows Copilot for scam detection, leaving users vulnerable. Its user interface is also considered less intuitive compared to competitors. While Defender offers basic protection, it is not comprehensive enough for most users, who may benefit from exploring third-party antivirus options for enhanced security.
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