quarantine Archives

Tech Optimizer

May 19, 2025

Hackers can turn off Windows Defender with this sneaky new tool

A security researcher known as es3n1n has developed a program called Defendnot, which disguises itself as an antivirus application and exploits a previously undocumented Windows Security Center (WSC) API. Defendnot registers itself as a legitimate antivirus, causing Windows Defender to disable itself when it detects another antivirus, leaving users vulnerable. Microsoft has responded by enabling Defender to detect and quarantine Defendnot as 'Win32/Sabsik.FL.!ml'. This is not the first version of such a program; a previous iteration was removed due to copyright infringement.

Tech Optimizer

May 18, 2025

Defendnot tool pitched as ‘an even funnier way’ to disable Windows Defender

A new tool called Defendnot, developed by es3n1n, allows users to disable Windows Defender by using an undocumented Windows Security Center (WSC) API to simulate the presence of another antivirus program. This tool is a successor to the no-defender tool, which was taken down due to legal issues. Defendnot does not use third-party antivirus code and aims for a clean implementation. It disables Microsoft Defender upon activation, leaving users vulnerable to malware as it does not provide real-time scanning. Defendnot is designed to run automatically at Windows startup. Microsoft classifies Defendnot as a Trojan, raising concerns about its potential misuse by malicious actors.

Tech Optimizer

April 29, 2025

Intego Mac Internet Security

PCs were introduced before Apple’s Macintosh, leading to the emergence of PC viruses and the establishment of antivirus companies, with Macintosh protection being less prioritized. Intego focused on Macintosh security from the start, offering Intego Mac Internet Security, which includes a firewall that manages network permissions and defends against external attacks. Intego has been effective against Mac malware, achieving a 99.1% malware detection score in independent lab tests, although it lacks phishing protection, a feature offered by competitors Norton 360 Deluxe and Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. Intego's pricing is competitive, with a standard annual fee of .99 for a single license and .99 for three licenses. A five-device subscription costs .99, while the Mac Premium Bundle starts at .99 annually and includes additional features. A 14-day free trial is available, and free alternatives like Avast and AVG are also on the market. Intego supports older macOS versions back to Mavericks (10.9), but the latest version requires High Sierra (10.13) or later. The installation process for Intego is straightforward, requiring a restart and granting necessary permissions. The main interface includes components for updates, firewall, and antivirus, with user-friendly access to scanning options. Intego has received certification from AV-Comparatives and detected 100% of Windows malware samples in tests. Its quick scan takes about two and a half minutes, while a full system scan takes seven minutes. Intego's Safe Browsing feature checks existing browser protections but lacks a dedicated antiphishing solution. The NetBarrier firewall allows users to classify their network and manage traffic permissions effectively, although it may be complex for some users.

Tech Optimizer

April 15, 2025

Steps to Scan Your Computer for Free and Check for Viruses and Malware

Windows Security, previously known as Windows Defender, is a built-in security tool in Windows 10 and 11 that provides comprehensive protection against viruses and malware without requiring additional software. Users can perform manual scans, including Quick, Full, and Custom scans, to identify and eliminate threats. To run a scan, users must open Windows Security, navigate to "Virus & threat protection," and select the desired scan option. Windows Security also includes features such as real-time protection, firewall and network protection, app and browser control, device security, and account protection. It is essential to keep Windows Security updated with the latest virus definitions for optimal protection. Users can also schedule automatic scans for regular checks.

AppWizard

March 21, 2025

Atomfall Review

Players in Atomfall awaken with amnesia in a post-apocalyptic landscape five years after the Windscale Fire, which has turned Cumberland into a quarantine zone controlled by the British government. The game features distinctive gameplay mechanics that emphasize survival action, where enemies do not have levels or health bars, and a well-placed headshot results in an instant kill. Players engage with a unique investigation system through an Investigation Journal that fills with 'Leads' as they explore, converse, and read documents. Interactions with NPCs allow for various resolutions without a morality system. Visually, the game presents mixed quality, with beautiful environments but rudimentary character models. Atomfall is optimized for smooth performance across platforms, maintaining a consistent 60fps on consoles.

Tech Optimizer

March 17, 2025

F-Secure Internet Security for Mac

F-Secure Internet Security for Mac provides essential malware protection, including quarantine capabilities and safeguards against future attacks, but lacks features compared to competitors like Norton 360 Deluxe and Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. Its pricing structure includes .99 for one license, .99 for three, and .99 for five licenses, with options for up to 25 devices at 4.99 annually. F-Secure requires macOS 12 or later and has been rated excellent by AV-Test Institute, achieving a perfect score of 18 in recent macOS tests. The software offers a quick virus scan and custom scan options but does not include scheduled scanning. It successfully quarantines 82% of Windows malware samples and scores 94% in phishing detection. F-Secure includes parental controls for managing children's online activities and features scam protection similar to its Windows version.

Tech Optimizer

February 19, 2025

Trojanized game PirateFi discovered on Steam

Free downloads from torrent trackers pose significant risks of malware, prompting security solutions to quarantine suspicious files. A recent incident involved the game PirateFi, which was removed from Steam after being flagged for harboring malware that stole browser cookies and compromised online accounts. The game attracted minimal attention, with around 1,500 downloads and reports of unauthorized transactions among players. Valve advised users to run security scans and suggested reformatting their operating systems, which confused many. The developers, Seaworth Interactive, raised suspicions due to their promotional tactics. Malware incidents on Steam are not new, with past cases like Dynostopia affecting players. Gamers are advised to avoid cheats, choose well-reviewed games, and install dedicated gaming antimalware for protection. Kaspersky Premium offers a gaming mode that minimizes interruptions during gameplay.

Winsage

February 16, 2025

12 Ways To Make Windows 11 Run Faster

Windows is a dominant operating system known for its affordability and software compatibility, but users often face performance issues. To enhance performance on Windows 11, users can: 1. Restart the device weekly and ensure it is up-to-date to resolve bugs and improve security. 2. Disable unnecessary startup applications via Settings > Apps > Startup or Task Manager. 3. Use Task Manager to monitor and terminate resource-hungry applications. 4. Uninstall unnecessary pre-installed software using tools like Revo Uninstaller or Geek Uninstaller. 5. Upgrade hardware by installing an SSD or adding RAM for better performance. 6. Regularly scan for malware using Windows Security to maintain system health. 7. Adjust power settings to "Best Performance" under Settings > System > Power & battery > Power Mode. 8. Free up disk space using built-in tools like Storage Sense or by manually deleting old files. 9. Disable unnecessary visual effects via Settings > Accessibility > Visual Effects or Control Panel. 10. Pause OneDrive or other cloud storage services to reduce resource consumption during intensive tasks. 11. Disable File Explorer search indexing if frequent searches are not needed. 12. Use the system restore feature to revert to a previous state if performance issues persist.

Tech Optimizer

February 7, 2025

What is Managed Endpoint Protection?

Managed Endpoint Protection involves outsourcing endpoint security for devices like laptops, desktops, and servers to specialized providers. These services offer continuous monitoring, automated responses, and compliance checks, utilizing advanced analytics and real-time threat intelligence. Key features include continuous monitoring, automated threat containment, vulnerability management, forensic analysis, compliance tools, and threat hunting. Managed services address various threats such as ransomware, phishing, zero-day exploits, credential theft, insider threats, DDoS attacks, and data exfiltration. Benefits include 24/7 expert coverage, access to specialized threat intelligence, faster incident response, reduced operational complexity, predictable pricing, and improved compliance. Challenges include the rapidly evolving threat landscape, skills shortage, budget constraints, and ensuring real-time visibility. Best practices for implementation involve maintaining asset inventories, defining roles, fine-tuning detection thresholds, conducting regular drills, and integrating with broader security measures. When choosing a provider, factors to consider include technical expertise, service level agreements, integration capabilities, pricing, compliance, and ongoing support. SentinelOne offers an autonomous cybersecurity platform that enhances endpoint security through superior visibility, automated responses, and customizable features.

Tech Optimizer

February 5, 2025

What to do if you think your PC has a virus

Signs that a PC may have a virus include noticeable slowdown in performance, unfamiliar applications appearing, frequent crashes or erratic software behavior, and overheating. To remove a virus from a PC, users should: 1. Disconnect from the internet. 2. Enter safe mode. 3. Run a virus scan with antivirus software. 4. Delete or quarantine infected files. 5. Clear temporary files using the Disk Cleanup tool. 6. Reset browser settings to default. 7. Check and disable unfamiliar startup programs in Task Manager. 8. Update the operating system and software. 9. Backup data regularly. To avoid future viruses, users should practice safe browsing, enable a firewall, download from trusted sites, and use a secure VPN connection.