protections Archives

AppWizard

January 16, 2026

This Android 16 protection feature looks like it’s ready to help you with ‘Intrusions’

Recent developments indicate that Google is working on an Advanced Protection feature called "Intrusion Logging," which is expected to be integrated into Android's Advanced Protections settings. This feature will preserve encrypted logs of device activity in case of a security issue. Originally, it was speculated that it would alert users to suspicious activity and that logs would be stored in Google Drive in an encrypted format, but this approach may have changed. The timeline for its official rollout is uncertain, but there is optimism for its debut in the next iteration of the Android 16 QPR series, following the release of Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2.

Winsage

January 15, 2026

Windows info-disclosure 0-day bug gets a fix as CISA sounds alarm

Microsoft and the U.S. government have issued a warning about a vulnerability in Windows, designated CVE-2026-20805, which is currently being exploited. This flaw allows an authorized attacker to leak a memory address from a remote ALPC port, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution. It has a medium severity rating of 5.5 on the CVSS scale. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has added this vulnerability to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog and requires federal agencies to implement a patch by February 3. Additionally, two other vulnerabilities were acknowledged: CVE-2026-21265, a secure boot certificate expiration bypass with a CVSS rating of 6.4, and CVE-2023-31096, an elevation of privilege flaw affecting third-party Agere Modem drivers, rated at 7.8. Two more vulnerabilities, CVE-2026-20952 (CVSS 7.7) and CVE-2026-20953 (CVSS 7.4), are use-after-free flaws in Office that could allow unauthorized code execution.

AppWizard

January 15, 2026

APKPure Strengthens Multi-Layer Security Framework to Enhance Protection for Android App Downloads

APKPure has enhanced its multi-layer security framework to improve user protection against security threats. Each app submitted undergoes a thorough human review process, including developer identity verification and compliance checks. APKPure distributes only original APK files signed by verified developers, matching signatures to official releases. The platform conducts regular scans using VirusTotal and collaborates with developers to ensure authorized app distribution. APKPure regularly audits listed apps and responds quickly to security alerts or DMCA reports. It offers two platforms: APKPure Official for a comprehensive experience and APKPure Lite for optimized downloads. Both platforms share the same verified app library and security measures, supporting over 200 regions and 23 languages.

Tech Optimizer

January 13, 2026

Trusted Antivirus Protection for PCs

Your PC requires robust antivirus protection due to its diverse usage, and Windows 11 offers built-in protections that operate seamlessly. Antivirus software, such as Microsoft Defender in Windows 11, protects against threats like viruses, malware, phishing websites, and suspicious email attachments. However, it cannot fully defend against social engineering scams, new ransomware, zero-day vulnerabilities, or risky online behaviors. Microsoft Defender provides automatic threat scanning, works with the Windows firewall, utilizes cloud intelligence, alerts users to unsafe content, and offers ransomware protection. To enhance security, users should keep software updated, use strong passwords, secure their Wi-Fi, enable firewalls, and back up files regularly.

Winsage

January 12, 2026

EDRStartupHinder Disables Antivirus and EDR Protections During Windows 11 25H2 Startup

A new tool named EDRStartupHinder was unveiled on January 11, 2026, which allows attackers to inhibit the launch of antivirus and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions during the Windows startup process. Developed by security researcher Two Seven One Three, it targets Windows Defender and various commercial security products on Windows 11 25H2 systems by redirecting essential system DLLs during boot using the Windows Bindlink API and Protected Process Light (PPL) security mechanisms. The tool employs a four-step attack chain that includes creating a malicious service with higher priority than the targeted security services, redirecting critical DLLs to attacker-controlled locations, and modifying a byte in the PE header of the DLLs to cause PPL-protected processes to refuse loading them. This results in the termination of the security software. EDRStartupHinder has been tested successfully against Windows Defender and other unnamed antivirus products, demonstrating its effectiveness in preventing these security solutions from launching. The source code for EDRStartupHinder is publicly available on GitHub, raising concerns about its potential misuse. Security teams are advised to monitor for Bindlink activity, unauthorized service creation, and registry modifications related to service groups and startup configurations to detect this attack vector. Microsoft has not yet issued any statements regarding patches or mitigations for this technique.

Winsage

January 11, 2026

Windows 10 Users Are Being Targeted With New Upgrade Offer

A surge of attacks targeting Windows 10 machines highlights the need for users to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro, which is currently available at a discount of approximately 94% off its standard price. Windows 10 is becoming increasingly vulnerable as it approaches its end of support, leaving users exposed to cyber threats. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency warns that unsupported systems are often exploited by cybercriminals. Windows 10 remains widely used, making it a significant target for attackers, as evidenced by over billion in reported cybercrime losses in 2023. Windows 11 Pro offers enhanced security features, including BitLocker drive encryption, Credential Guard, and Smart App Control, along with a security-first design that requires compatible hardware. Current promotions allow users to purchase a Windows 11 Pro license for under 0, providing a one-time purchase option that includes updates until Microsoft ends support for Windows 11. Users are advised to check compatibility before upgrading and to back up important files. For those unable to upgrade, alternatives include purchasing Extended Security Updates or investing in new hardware that meets Windows 11 specifications.

Winsage

January 7, 2026

Hackers Use Fake Windows BSOD To Spread Malware

Security researchers have identified a social engineering campaign that mimics the Windows Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) to deceive users into installing a remote access Trojan (RAT). The campaign, named PHALT#BLYX, begins with phishing emails that appear to be legitimate cancellation notices from travel websites, leading victims to a fake login page and an interactive CAPTCHA. This culminates in a full-screen imitation of the BSOD, prompting users to follow instructions that ultimately allow attackers to gain control of their computers. The attackers use a “ClickFix” process that involves executing commands through native Windows tools like PowerShell and MSBuild, making detection more challenging. The malware delivered is an obfuscated version of DCRat, which provides attackers with remote control capabilities, keylogging, and the ability to download additional malware. The campaign primarily targets hotels and hospitality businesses in Europe, exploiting the urgency of front-desk staff to respond to apparent technical issues. Indicators of a fake BSOD include the ability to interact with the screen, requests to execute commands via Windows tools, and the presence of CAPTCHA prompts. Organizations are advised to train employees, implement application control, enhance email and web defenses, and prepare for incident response to mitigate risks associated with such attacks.

Tech Optimizer

January 7, 2026

Fake error popups are spreading malware fast

A new cybercrime tool called ErrTraffic has emerged, simplifying malware dissemination through deceptive fake error messages that prompt users to address non-existent issues. The attacks begin on compromised websites, where users encounter distorted text and pop-ups suggesting a browser update or font installation. Clicking the provided button copies a command to the clipboard, instructing users to paste it into PowerShell, which triggers the malware infection. ErrTraffic automates this process, requiring minimal investment for attackers to access a control panel and scripted payload delivery. It operates via JavaScript injection, adapting to the user's operating system and browser to display tailored messages. This method effectively bypasses traditional malware defenses, achieving high conversion rates, with nearly 60% of users following through with the instructions. Infected devices may deploy infostealers or banking trojans, with the system designed to evade law enforcement by excluding certain regions. To mitigate risks, users should avoid copying commands from websites, trust built-in update notifications, use robust antivirus software, and regularly remove personal information from data broker sites.

AppWizard

January 6, 2026

Pure, Unfiltered Chaos: New “3b2t” Minecraft Anarchy Server Launches for Java and Bedrock Players

3b2t is a newly launched Anarchy server for Minecraft that offers a pure vanilla experience without rules, claims, or griefing protections. It features high-stakes PvP, base raiding, and allows players to engage in authentic survival gameplay. The server supports Cross-Play for both Minecraft Java Edition and Bedrock Edition, and operates on the latest version of the game. The server IP is 3b2t.mc.gg, and the port is 19132.

Tech Optimizer

January 4, 2026

The Best Antivirus Software for Mobile Security in 2026

TraceX Guard is an AI-powered Android security application developed by TraceX Labs, specifically designed for the mobile threat landscape in India. It focuses on regional threats such as scam applications, malicious APK installers, QR code fraud, and hidden malware. The app features AI-driven malware detection, APK installation protection, QR and URL security, network security, identity and account protection, and a multilingual interface to enhance accessibility for users in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Bitdefender Mobile Security is a premium antivirus solution for Android that offers on-demand and on-install scanning, web protection, a built-in VPN, and an account privacy checker, known for its accurate threat detection and minimal system impact. Norton Mobile Security provides real-time malware protection, app advisor and pre-download scanning, Wi-Fi security alerts, web protection, and an optional VPN, making it suitable for users of all experience levels. McAfee Mobile Security includes antivirus and threat scanning, an unlimited secure VPN, identity monitoring, safe browsing features, and multi-device support, catering to users seeking comprehensive protection and privacy tools. When choosing a mobile security app, TraceX Guard is ideal for India-focused protection, Bitdefender for strong paid protection, Norton for a well-rounded suite, and McAfee for broad protection with VPN and identity monitoring.