protest Archives

Winsage

May 17, 2026

New Windows ‘MiniPlasma’ zero-day exploit gives SYSTEM access, PoC released

A cybersecurity researcher, known as Chaotic Eclipse, has released a proof-of-concept exploit for a Windows privilege escalation zero-day vulnerability called "MiniPlasma," which allows attackers to gain SYSTEM privileges on fully patched Windows systems. The vulnerability affects the cldflt.sys Cloud Filter driver and was reported by Google Project Zero in September 2020, assigned the identifier CVE-2020-17103, and claimed to be resolved by Microsoft in December 2020. However, Chaotic Eclipse asserts that the vulnerability remains unpatched. Testing confirmed that the exploit works on Windows 11 Pro, enabling command prompt access with SYSTEM privileges from a standard user account. Will Dormann, a vulnerability analyst, verified the exploit's effectiveness but noted it did not work in the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Canary build. The exploit leverages the undocumented CfAbortHydration API to manage registry key creation improperly. Chaotic Eclipse has previously disclosed other Windows zero-day vulnerabilities and claims their actions are a protest against Microsoft's handling of vulnerabilities.

AppWizard

May 7, 2026

Despite Gothic Remake’s glow-up, it’s still the scrappy eurojank RPG it always was, and that’s fine with me

Gothic Remake revisits the original Gothic game, which established a foundation for future RPGs. Players start as a nameless convict in a penal colony controlled by inmates, facing challenges without weapons or clear direction. The game emphasizes exploration, NPC interaction, and skill development rather than immediate action. The Colony, originally a penal facility, is divided into three factions: the organized Old Camp, the ruthless New Camp, and the eccentric Swamp Camp. Players encounter dangers and must navigate the environment without a minimap, relying on NPC guidance. Combat mechanics reflect the protagonist's initial lack of skill, and the game retains a sense of discovery and immersion characteristic of traditional RPGs.

AppWizard

May 2, 2026

Minecraft PvP scandal claims top player is a catfishing fraud

Marlow, a top player in the Minecraft PvP community, faces serious allegations of faked gameplay, manipulated proof videos, and misleading practices. Accusations suggest that Marlow's rise in the MC Tiers rankings was based on deceit, with investigative journalist Karl Jobst highlighting the lack of live-streamed gameplay and unedited footage. A handcam response video released by Marlow showed discrepancies between match logs and the footage, leading to claims that the fights were fabricated. Marlow admitted that many montages were staged. Investigations linked Marlow to another player, Danger Mario, who allegedly helped create Marlow's YouTube presence and used cheats. A face reveal video raised further skepticism about Marlow's identity, as the individual did not engage in gameplay and had a different voice. Initially banned by MCT for being suspected as Danger Mario, Marlow was reinstated after a face reveal and alleged verification, causing backlash and staff resignations. Claims emerged that the face reveal individual was linked to MCT staff member The Randomizer, who admitted to paying someone to impersonate Marlow. The MCT Discord was reportedly transferred to Minecraft YouTuber DrDonut, with ongoing discussions about new ownership involving Dream. The controversy raises significant questions about the integrity of the Minecraft competitive scene.

Winsage

April 25, 2026

In France they “buried” Windows 10 at the Microsoft office

On April 24, a protest organized by environmental and consumer advocacy groups took place outside the Microsoft France office in Paris to oppose the company's decision to discontinue support for the Windows 10 operating system. Activists claim this could lead to the obsolescence of approximately 300 million computers worldwide, resulting in 58 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions and significant depletion of raw materials. Consumers may face an average cost of €600 for new devices if they upgrade. Experts warn users must choose between expensive new hardware or risking financial fraud due to lack of security updates. The organization Halte à l'Obsolescence Programmée is gathering signatures for a petition advocating for a mandatory 15-year software support period. Public advocacy previously convinced Microsoft to extend its software update releases by an additional 12 months. The protest aims to raise awareness and apply pressure until the end of October.

AppWizard

March 21, 2026

Russia thwarts protests over the blocking of a popular messaging app, but frustration persists

Authorities in nearly a dozen Russian regions have employed various justifications to cancel demonstrations against internet censorship and the blocking of Telegram, including citing "tree inspections," snow removal issues, and COVID-19 restrictions. Activists have largely refrained from unauthorized rallies due to increased crackdowns, opting instead for court challenges or smaller indoor gatherings. Telegram, with approximately 93.6 million users in Russia, is crucial for communication among government agencies and military bloggers, despite the government's push for a state-backed alternative. Protests against Telegram's restrictions have occurred, even among groups typically supportive of the Kremlin, with some activists being detained during attempts to demonstrate. Instances of small pickets have emerged, although many requests for rally permits are denied. Legal actions against the government regarding Telegram's restrictions have also begun, with a growing number of plaintiffs challenging the measures as violations of free speech and privacy rights.

AppWizard

January 17, 2026

Disney suddenly pulls 14 games from Steam, including a childhood favorite, and the preservationist in me is wincing

Over a dozen Disney-published titles have been removed from Steam, raising concerns about digital preservation in gaming. Notable delisted games include the 1996 simulation game Afterlife, along with Armed and Dangerous, Lucidity, and Stunt Island. The complete list of removed titles is: - Afterlife - Armed and Dangerous - Disney's Cars Radiator Springs Adventures - Disney's Chicken Little Ace in Action - Disney Fairies: Tinker Bell's Adventure - Disney's Hercules - Disney Pixar Finding Nemo - Disney Pixar Toy Story Mania - Disney Planes - Disney The Princess and The Frog - Disney Winnie the Pooh - Lucidity - Phineas and Ferb: New Inventions - Stunt Island The absence of prior notice regarding the delisting has frustrated fans and collectors, highlighting the fragility of digital ownership.

Winsage

October 18, 2025

Microsoft’s warning if you continue to use Windows 10 today: “We see cyberattacks increasing in both volume and complexity”

Microsoft has officially ceased updates for Windows 10 and urged consumers to upgrade their hardware and operating systems. The company is committed to sustainability and security, aiming for carbon negativity, water positivity, and zero waste by 2030. Microsoft reported that one in five businesses in Europe experienced security breaches in 2024, highlighting the risks associated with outdated software. They advocate for upgrading to Windows 11, which they claim has a 62% drop in security incidents compared to Windows 10. A protest by the Right to Repair Europe coalition occurred outside Microsoft’s headquarters, arguing that the decision to stop updates makes functional computers obsolete and raises concerns about processor incompatibility for many existing PCs.

AppWizard

October 14, 2025

Old School Runescape dev says Sailing update won’t follow up on the “perfection” of Sea Shanty 2

Old School Runescape features a popular soundtrack, with Sea Shanty 2 being the most celebrated tune. The game has seen a resurgence in popularity, attracting former World of Warcraft players and content creators. Senior game designer Elena Nordmark expressed a desire for a sequel, Sea Shanty 3, but noted that her request may not have been taken seriously by the audio team. Design director Kieren Charles questioned how to create a sequel to such a beloved song. Nordmark hinted at upcoming exciting news, though details remain undisclosed.

BetaBeacon

August 9, 2025

Itch.io Is Restoring NSFW Games—as Long as They’re Free

Itch.io has re-indexed some adult content that was delisted last month due to pressure from conservative groups and payment processors. The move only impacts free content, with paid content being reintroduced slowly. Valve also delisted games with adult content in response to pressure from payment processors. The removals have affected thousands of creators, including marginalized developers. Itch is seeking alternative payment processors to continue supporting a wide range of creators.

AppWizard

August 3, 2025

Over a million people have claimed free NSFW games from GOG’s FreedomToBuy initiative

Today is the last day for gamers to claim 13 free titles from GOG as part of the FreedomToBuy.games initiative, which opposes censorship in the gaming industry. The games are categorized as NSFW, which have faced scrutiny from payment processors on platforms like Steam and Itch.io. GOG reported that within 24 hours of the initiative's launch, one million individuals claimed the games, indicating strong support. The bundle is available until midnight EST tonight, and GOG may offer more bundles in the future. Developers can contribute by donating their games to the initiative. The FreedomToBuy initiative highlights concerns about gaming censorship, particularly regarding adult-only games, and warns that if the trend continues, other games could also be delisted.