quantum computing Archives

Winsage

August 24, 2026

Microsoft Prepares Windows Code Signing for Stronger Cryptography

Microsoft has issued an advisory to IT teams and software developers regarding significant changes in Windows code signing due to the expiration of the Windows Production PCA 2011 certificate in October 2026. The transition will involve stronger cryptographic algorithms, including RSA-3072 and SHA-384, which may cause compatibility issues for applications that rely on hardcoded certificate checks or outdated cryptographic standards. Microsoft plans to implement post-quantum cryptography by default for Windows code signing in 2027. IT administrators are encouraged to assess their software environments, confirm vendor compliance with supported trust-validation mechanisms, and ensure applications are tested against the new certificate hierarchy and signing algorithms. Organizations with private trust stores must establish processes for recognizing and deploying legitimate Microsoft certificate updates.

AppWizard

July 11, 2026

Z-TEXT, a zk-SNARKs Blockchain Messenger, Launches Channels, Completing a 4-in-1 Privacy App on BitcoinZ

Z-TEXT has launched its Channels feature, transforming its platform into a comprehensive 4-in-1 privacy ecosystem built on the BitcoinZ blockchain. This system features a four-layer security architecture, including local device encryption, zk-SNARKs shielding, BitcoinZ blockchain settlement, and post-quantum protection. The Channels feature allows creators to maintain control over their broadcasts, with subscribers connecting directly through their wallets, ensuring no central authority can seize or delete subscriber information. Users can restore their channel and its history on any new device using a 24-word seed phrase. Z-TEXT emphasizes the importance of permanence in privacy, contrasting with the trend of automatic message deletion. The application requires no phone number, email, or SIM card for identity verification, relying solely on the 24-word seed phrase. Z-TEXT has been in closed beta without critical vulnerabilities and is preparing for public release on major app stores. The average message fee is approximately [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: Z-TEXT, a pioneering zk-SNARKs blockchain messenger, has recently unveiled its innovative Channels feature, marking a significant evolution in its privacy-focused ecosystem. Built on the BitcoinZ blockchain, Z-TEXT is designed with a robust four-layer security architecture that includes local device encryption, zk-SNARKs shielding, BitcoinZ blockchain settlement, and post-quantum protection. The Shift to a 4-in-1 Privacy Ecosystem This launch signifies Z-TEXT's transformation from a conventional messaging platform to a comprehensive 4-in-1 privacy ecosystem. In this new paradigm, users' interactions are securely housed within their wallets rather than in centralized company databases. As Eric Pierrot, the founder of Z-TEXT LLC, aptly notes, "Needing to disappear is proof you can't survive the erosion of time—or what's coming with quantum computing." The Channels feature empowers creators by allowing them to maintain control over their broadcasts. Each subscriber connects directly to the channel through their own wallet, eliminating the risk of a central authority seizing, selling, or deleting subscriber information. This decentralized approach ensures that the integrity of the channel remains intact, regardless of external pressures. Subscribers can receive messages from the broadcaster at a fixed cost, whether the audience comprises ten or ten thousand individuals. In the event of a lost device, users can effortlessly restore their channel and its complete history on any new device using the same 24-word seed phrase that secures their entire account. A Commitment to Privacy and Permanence The launch of Channels builds upon Z-TEXT's commitment to privacy, a principle the company has championed since releasing its privacy manifesto on IPFS and timestamping it on the BitcoinZ blockchain earlier this year. While many messaging applications promote automatic deletion as a feature, Z-TEXT argues that true privacy is rooted in permanence. Pierrot emphasizes, "If your encryption actually holds, the message doesn't need to vanish to stay safe. Eternal memory is our signature—we built for permanence, not for disappearing." Having successfully navigated a closed beta phase without any critical vulnerabilities reported through its on-chain bug bounty program, Z-TEXT is now gearing up for a public release on major app stores, including Google Play and the Apple App Store. The application requires no phone number, email address, or SIM card, with identity verification based solely on a 24-word seed phrase. In addition to its messaging capabilities, Z-TEXT integrates a password manager and a crypto wallet, all while maintaining an impressively low average message fee of approximately [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: Z-TEXT, a zk-SNARKs blockchain messenger built on BitcoinZ The four-layer security architecture behind Z-TEXT: local device encryption, zk-SNARKs shielding, BitcoinZ blockchain settlement, and post-quantum protection. The launch completes Z-TEXT's shift from messenger to a 4-in-1 privacy ecosystem, where audiences live in subscribers' wallets, not company databases. Needing to disappear is proof you can't survive the erosion of time—or what's coming with quantum computing.”— Eric Pierrot, founder of Z-TEXT LLCSHERIDAN, WY, UNITED STATES, July 11, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Z-TEXT, a zk-SNARKs blockchain messenger, built on BitcoinZ, has launched Channels, a broadcast feature where the creator—not a platform—controls the channel. Each subscriber holds their own connection to the channel in their own wallet, so there is no central list a company can seize, sell, or delete. Channels joins Z-TEXT's existing privacy ecosystem of shielded messenger, password manager, and crypto wallet, all accessible through a single 24-word seed phrase.A single Channels transaction reaches any number of subscribers, from ten to ten thousand, at the same fixed cost. No company sits between the broadcaster and the audience with the ability to suspend the channel or hand over the subscriber list. If a device is lost, the channel and its full history can be restored on any new device using the same 24-word seed phrase that recovers the rest of the account.The launch extends a position Z-TEXT has held publicly since June, when the company published a privacy manifesto on IPFS and timestamped it on the BitcoinZ blockchain, arguing that permanence, not disappearing messages, is the stronger privacy guarantee. Most messaging apps market automatic deletion as a safety feature. "Needing to disappear is proof you can't survive the erosion of time — or what's coming with quantum computing," said Eric Pierrot, founder of Z-TEXT LLC. "If your encryption actually holds, the message doesn't need to vanish to stay safe. "Eternal memory is our signature—we built for permanence, not for disappearing."Z-TEXT has been operating in closed beta, during which no critical vulnerability was reported through the company's on-chain bug bounty program. The company said it is preparing for public release on major app stores, including Google Play and the Apple App Store.Z-TEXT is a zk-SNARKs blockchain messenger built on BitcoinZ, a blockchain operating since September 10, 2017, that combines Bitcoin's mathematical structure with Zcash's zk-SNARKs privacy technology. The application requires no phone number, email address, or SIM card; identity is derived from a 24-word seed phrase. Z-TEXT combines a shielded messenger, password manager, crypto wallet, and channels in one application, with message fees averaging approximately $0.00003 per message. The company has published its full threat model publicly, including known limitations, and operates a live bug bounty program funded on-chain.eric pierrotZ-Text llccontact@z-text.comVisit us on social media:LinkedInBlueskyYouTubeOther Z-TEXT: The Architecture of Permanent Data Security Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above. You just read: News Provided By July 11, 2026, 18:53 GMT Share This Article EIN Presswire's priority is author transparency. We do our best to weed out false and misleading content. The content above is the sole responsibility of the author who makes it available. If you have any complaints, kindly contact the author above." temperature="0.3"].00003. The company has made its full threat model publicly available, demonstrating transparency regarding known limitations, and continues to operate a live bug bounty program funded on-chain. " max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.7" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].00003.

Winsage

June 4, 2026

ADCS Now Generates Post-Quantum Certificates For Windows

Active Directory Certificate Services (ADCS) now supports the generation of post-quantum certificates, enhancing quantum-safe cryptography within Windows' secure connection protocols. Microsoft has integrated PQ TLS hybrid key exchange into the Windows Transport Layer Security (TLS) stack, providing protection against "Harvest Now, Decrypt Later" attacks. The PQ TLS hybrid key exchange combines traditional cryptographic methods with the NIST ML-KEM algorithm, offering three hybrid combinations: X25519MLKEM768, SecP256r1MLKEM768, and SecP384r1_MLKEM1024. This feature is available in preview via the Windows Insider Program and will be rolled out to Windows 11 and Windows Server. Additionally, Windows cryptography APIs now support composite ML-KEM and ML-DSA algorithms, which are NIST-approved standards for key exchange and digital signatures, enhancing security by requiring multiple components to be compromised. Microsoft emphasizes the importance of establishing new Certification Authorities (CAs) for implementing post-quantum certificate issuance, as existing CAs cannot be upgraded. The introduction of ML-DSA support within ADCS allows organizations to counter HNDL risks associated with long-lived data. Organizations are encouraged to inventory their use of public-key cryptography, prioritize systems protecting sensitive data, and test hybrid and composite approaches in non-production environments to facilitate a smooth transition to quantum-safe cryptography.

AppWizard

May 8, 2026

Google is turning Android Studio into a policy watchdog

Google is enhancing the development experience for Android app creators by expanding Play Policy Insights within Android Studio, allowing developers to identify potential policy issues during coding. Developers will connect their Play developer accounts to access tailored insights. Google is also leveraging the SDK Index, a searchable database of Android SDKs, to provide crucial information on permissions and compliance with Play policies. To improve app security and user privacy, Google is upgrading the Play Integrity API for quicker detection of fraud and abuse, and introducing new privacy tools like a contact picker and location button. Support for post-quantum cryptography in Play App Signing will be added to protect apps from future threats. Developer verification will be implemented across Android to prevent the distribution of harmful apps. Google is revamping the Play Console to streamline the app publishing process, introducing expanded pre-review checks for common policy violations, a release status API for tracking approvals, and a feature to prevent new commits during reviews. Parallel publishing will be rolled out to avoid delays in updates. Additional enhancements include a Submission History log, secure account transfer tools, AI-powered policy recommendations, and expanded Play Academy training resources for new developers.

Tech Optimizer

April 19, 2026

Avast Antivirus: Between Free Tier Strength and Privacy Risks, Things Are Getting Interesting

Avast Antivirus offers free protection against malware, phishing, and unsafe websites, featuring real-time scanning, ransomware protection, and a behavior-based detection system. The free edition includes protective shields for files, emails, and web browsing, while Avast Premium Security provides advanced ransomware defense and a secure browser. Avast One bundles additional features like a VPN and parental controls. Gen Digital acquired Avast in 2022, positioning it as a key part of its consumer cybersecurity strategy, with a freemium model that attracts users and encourages upgrades to premium plans. Avast has a user base of 435 million, with millions transitioning to paid subscriptions annually. The global antivirus market is experiencing double-digit growth, driven by increasing cyber threats. Avast competes with major players like Norton, Bitdefender, and Kaspersky, while facing challenges from free alternatives like Windows Defender. The company previously faced privacy issues related to the sale of anonymized browsing data but has since implemented transparency measures and compliance with EU regulations. Avast is exploring AI-driven detection methods and post-quantum defenses to enhance its offerings.

Tech Optimizer

April 15, 2026

Avast Antivirus: Free Protection Faces Rising AI Threats in Cybersecurity Market

Avast Antivirus offers a robust free version with premium features, providing high-quality protection against cyber threats, including viruses, spyware, and ransomware. Key features include Smart Scan, Password Manager, and Network Inspector, which help users identify vulnerabilities and safeguard their data. Avast has a global user base of over 435 million and is particularly relevant in the U.S., where data breaches affect millions annually. The company operates under Gen Digital, which acquired Avast in 2022, leveraging a freemium model to attract users and upsell advanced features. Avast focuses on AI-driven threat detection and maintains a strong market position against competitors like Norton and McAfee. The global cybersecurity market has surpassed 0 billion, driven by increasing threats, and Avast counters these with machine learning capabilities. Risks for Avast include zero-day exploits, privacy concerns, and competition from built-in OS protections. Avast's cloud-based updates and multilingual support enhance its appeal, while its integration with smart home devices is planned for the future.

Tech Optimizer

April 14, 2026

Norton (durch Symantec Übernahme teilweise verknüpft, aber Marke liegt bei Gen Digital. Broadcom i

Norton, owned by Gen Digital, provides antivirus software, VPN services, and identity theft monitoring to protect users from cyber threats such as malware and phishing attacks. The company emphasizes subscription-based revenue through Norton 360, which bundles various security features, ensuring predictable cash flow. Norton competes with other antivirus brands like McAfee and Bitdefender, maintaining a strong market share in North America due to its established brand trust. The demand for cybersecurity tools is driven by rising cyber threats, including ransomware attacks and increased remote work, which necessitate robust online protection. Gen Digital is investing in AI-driven threat detection and expanding its offerings to address evolving security needs. However, Norton faces challenges from free alternatives, potential privacy concerns, and macroeconomic pressures that could affect consumer spending on security products.

AppWizard

March 27, 2026

Google rolling out Android 17 Beta 3 for Pixel

Google has released Android 17 Beta 3, introducing Platform Stability, which finalizes internal and external APIs and app-facing behaviors for developers. Key enhancements include full activation of bubbles for multitasking, a redesigned screen recording toolbar, customizable photo picker grid view, support for 14-bit per pixel RAW images, vendor-defined camera extensions, Bluetooth LE audio hearing aids, reduced wakelocks for idle alarms, a system-provided location button, post-quantum cryptography hybrid signing, widget support on external displays, desktop interactive picture-in-picture, VPN app exclusion settings, and dynamic system font fallback. Feedback can be submitted through the Android Beta Feedback tool, and system images are available for various Pixel devices.

AppWizard

March 11, 2026

Quantum Computing Isn’t Just Coming for Bitcoin—It Threatens Messaging Apps Too

IBM researchers are collaborating with Signal and Threema to develop messaging systems resilient to quantum computing threats, prompted by concerns that quantum technology could compromise current encryption methods. IBM's report stresses the need to redesign messaging protocols in anticipation of potential quantum capabilities that could break existing encryption. Cryptography expert Ethan Heilman highlighted that encrypted messaging platforms face immediate risks from quantum threats, specifically through "store-and-forward attacks." Both Signal and Threema are enhancing their security measures; Signal is implementing upgrades like PQXDH and SPQR for post-quantum protection, while Threema is integrating the ML-KEM algorithm for quantum-safe encryption. Research indicated that adapting the Signal protocol for quantum safety may increase bandwidth requirements, necessitating a complete redesign for efficiency.

Tech Optimizer

January 28, 2026

Top Android Antivirus Apps for 2026: Reviews and Key Features

Android users face increasing cyber threats as we approach 2026, with AI-driven malware and ransomware becoming more prevalent. The antivirus market has evolved to include advanced features like real-time threat intelligence and integrated privacy tools. Norton Mobile Security is noted for its machine learning-powered malware detection, VPN, app advisor, and dark web monitoring, achieving a 99.9% detection rate. TotalAV offers user-friendly antivirus scanning and system optimization, with features like real-time phishing protection and cloud-based scanning. Aura Antivirus combines antivirus with identity theft protection and family safety features, excelling in AI-driven behavioral analysis. Bitdefender Mobile Security is recognized for its lightweight design, anti-theft features, and effective web protection. McAfee Mobile Security provides secure Wi-Fi scanning and IoT integration, with high user satisfaction reported. Norton leads in predictive analytics, while TotalAV includes a VPN for remote workers. Aura offers family-oriented tools and compliance-friendly features, incorporating blockchain technology for secure identity verification. Bitdefender is efficient in battery usage and has a high detection rate. McAfee supports multi-device protection and has strong customer support. Norton’s dark web monitoring helps prevent identity theft, and TotalAV blocks trackers and ads. Aura links antivirus protection to financial security with credit monitoring. Bitdefender automates threat responses and has a strong anti-ransomware module. McAfee scans for vulnerabilities in smart devices and provides threat intelligence feeds. Future developments may include quantum-resistant encryption. TotalAV is praised for its user interface, while Aura encourages user feedback for improvements. Bitdefender uses machine learning to reduce false positives, and McAfee employs predictive modeling for personalized security. Organizations must evaluate antivirus solutions based on integration with existing security frameworks, cost, and performance impact. Emerging trends include biometric authentication and deeper hardware-level security protections.