remote support

AppWizard
November 14, 2025
Many Americans seek tech support from family during Thanksgiving gatherings. Remote support apps allow users to connect directly to a relative’s device, making it easier to diagnose and resolve issues. However, the effectiveness of these apps depends on prior setup, and many users are hesitant to invest time in this process. Survey results show that about two-thirds of respondents have acted as troubleshooters, but only 10% use remote support apps as their first choice, and 12% consider them a last resort. Additionally, 36% of participants have convinced others they lack the skills to help. Concerns about setup complexity and potential misuse by scammers contribute to the low adoption of these tools. One reader suggested RustDesk as an alternative to TeamViewer.
Tech Optimizer
November 13, 2025
Cybersecurity researchers at AhnLab Security Intelligence Center (ASEC) have discovered an attack campaign that uses legitimate Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tools, specifically LogMeIn Resolve and PDQ Connect, to deploy backdoor malware on users' systems. Attackers lure victims to fake download sites that mimic legitimate software pages for utilities like Notepad++, 7-Zip, and VLC Media Player, delivering modified versions of LogMeIn Resolve. The malicious installers are disguised with filenames such as "notepad++.exe" and "chatgpt.exe." Once executed, these files install the RMM tool and additional malware capable of stealing sensitive information. ASEC has identified three CompanyId values associated with the attacks: 8347338797131280000, 1995653637248070000, and 4586548334491120000. The malware, known as PatoRAT, is a Delphi-developed backdoor that gathers system information and has extensive malicious capabilities, including keylogging and remote desktop access. Users are advised to download software only from official websites and verify digital signatures, while organizations should monitor for unauthorized RMM installations and the identified indicators of compromise.
Winsage
October 20, 2025
Windows 11 includes an emergency restart feature that allows users to quickly reset an unresponsive system without closing applications individually. This function can be accessed from the safe sign-in screen by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Del, holding the Ctrl key, and clicking the power icon. A confirmation box will appear, warning that unsaved data will be lost, and selecting OK will initiate an immediate reboot. This feature is useful in situations where the interface is unresponsive, such as with frozen applications or missing taskbars. While it can help regain control of the computer, it carries the risk of losing unsaved work and interrupting ongoing operations. Alternative methods for addressing unresponsiveness include using Task Manager, resetting the graphics driver, executing a command line shutdown, or using the physical power button. The emergency restart is recognized as a last-resort recovery option and is particularly valued in troubleshooting scenarios.
Tech Optimizer
October 6, 2025
Modern ransomware operations have evolved into complex, multi-stage campaigns that utilize legitimate Remote Access Tools (RATs) to maintain stealth and persistently dismantle organizational defenses. Ransomware encrypts critical data and demands ransom for restoration, with current operations being highly targeted compared to earlier mass phishing attacks. Attackers exploit trusted administrative software like AnyDesk, UltraViewer, RustDesk, and Splashtop to establish backdoors, escalate privileges, and deploy payloads across networks, moving laterally and evading detection. The ransomware kill chain consists of several stages: 1. Initial Access: Attackers gain access through credential compromise, often targeting administrator accounts. 2. Remote Tool Abuse: Attackers deploy RATs either by hijacking existing tools or performing silent installations. 3. Persistence & Privilege Consolidation: They maintain persistence using registry keys and scheduled tasks while escalating privileges. 4. Antivirus Neutralization & Anti-Forensics: Attackers stop antivirus services, manipulate policies, and clear logs to evade detection. 5. Payload Deployment & Execution: Ransomware is delivered and executed within remote sessions to avoid suspicion. Commonly abused RATs include AnyDesk, UltraViewer, AppAnywhere, RustDesk, Splashtop, and TightVNC, which have been associated with various ransomware campaigns. Understanding the tactics and techniques used by adversaries is crucial for effective defense, as they exploit legitimate tools to bypass security measures. Emerging trends include AI-driven RAT deployment, cloud-based RAT abuse, and the integration of RATs in ransomware-as-a-service offerings. A comprehensive defense strategy involves multiple layers of security, including virus protection, behavior-based detection, and application control, to counter the risks posed by RAT abuse in ransomware attacks.
BetaBeacon
September 16, 2025
The latest Dolphin Emulator release, version 2509, disables Dual Core mode by default on desktop to fix common crashes. Additionally, the update includes compatibility fixes for three Disney Wii games and a patch for Bluetooth Passthrough to improve Wii Remote support.
Tech Optimizer
August 4, 2025
A significant PostgreSQL vulnerability, CVE-2025–1094, was identified during the investigation of another vulnerability, CVE-2024–12356, which was exploited in the BeyondTrust breach in December 2024. The breach involved unauthorized access to BeyondTrust's systems and was linked to the state-sponsored hacking group Silk Typhoon from China. The U.S. Treasury Department confirmed its network was compromised through a stolen BeyondTrust API key. CVE-2025–1094 is an SQL injection vulnerability that allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands due to improper handling of invalid UTF-8 byte sequences. Rapid7 found that CVE-2024–12356's exploitation relied on CVE-2025–1094, and that CVE-2025–1094 could be exploited independently. BeyondTrust issued patches for these vulnerabilities, but the patch for CVE-2024–12356 did not directly address the underlying cause of CVE-2025–1094. The exploitation of these vulnerabilities underscores the need for timely patching and proactive security measures in organizations using PostgreSQL.
Tech Optimizer
July 30, 2025
Cyber threats have evolved significantly in the past five years, introducing AI-driven phishing attacks, fileless malware, and rapid ransomware attacks. Traditional antivirus software is struggling against these advanced threats. Effective strategies for computer security in 2025 include reinforcing systems, implementing robust network defenses, and selecting appropriate security tools. NinjaOne and AnyDesk are highlighted as leading security solutions. NinjaOne focuses on endpoint management and monitoring, featuring built-in BitDefender antivirus and real-time monitoring, while AnyDesk provides secure remote desktop access with military-grade encryption and session recording. Computer virus prevention involves addressing vulnerabilities in system configuration, network defenses, user habits, and outdated software. Key practices include disabling unnecessary services, configuring firewalls, educating users about phishing, and ensuring timely software updates. NinjaOne offers proactive malware protection through behavioral monitoring, automated updates, and instant remote intervention. Pricing starts as low as [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: You are now confronted with cyber threats that were virtually unheard of just five years ago. The landscape has evolved dramatically, introducing AI-driven phishing attacks, fileless malware that exists solely in memory, and ransomware capable of encrypting entire networks in mere moments. This raises an important question: how effective are your five-year-old security measures in this new environment? Traditional antivirus software, once a staple of computer security, now struggles against these advanced cyber threats. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to bolster your defenses and safeguard your systems. Today, we’ll explore how to prevent viruses and malicious code using strategies that are relevant for 2025. You will learn how to reinforce your systems, implement robust network defenses, and select computer security tools that can intercept threats before they can execute. Quick Snapshot: Top Computer Security Solutions for 2025 Among the leading solutions, both NinjaOne and AnyDesk play pivotal roles in enhancing your computer security defenses, albeit in different ways. Here’s a comparative look: NinjaOne AnyDesk Primary Function Endpoint management & monitoring Secure remote desktop access Best For IT teams managing multiple devices Remote support & work-from-home security Malware Protection Built-in BitDefender antivirus, behavioral detection Prevents malware transmission during remote sessions Key Security Features Real-time monitoring, automated patching, USB blocking Military-grade encryption, whitelist access, session recording Starting Price Custom pricing (as low as .50/month for 10,000 endpoints) Free for personal use, €22.90/month for business Free Trial 14 days with full features Free version available, paid plans billed annually Understanding Computer Virus Prevention & System Hardening Computer virus prevention begins with recognizing that malware exploits vulnerabilities in four critical areas: system configuration, network defenses, user habits, and outdated software. System hardening involves proactively closing these security gaps before they can be exploited. Start by disabling unnecessary services and ports. Each running service represents a potential entry point for malware. Turn off file sharing when it’s not needed, disable remote desktop access unless actively in use, and restrict administrator rights from daily user accounts. Next, focus on your network. Configure your firewall to block all incoming connections except those you specifically allow. Employ DNS filtering to prevent access to known malicious sites. Segment your network to contain breaches and enable WPA3 encryption on your Wi-Fi, while also changing default passwords on all network devices. After adjusting device settings, it’s time to modify risky user habits. Educate yourself and your team to recognize phishing attempts. Avoid opening unexpected attachments, even from known contacts, as their accounts may have been compromised. Always verify suspicious requests through a different communication channel. Lastly, ensure that you update your software. Regular updates patch security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by spyware and other threats. Enable automatic updates for your operating system and browsers, and update all software within 48 hours of patch releases, as attackers often target unpatched systems immediately after vulnerabilities become public. NinjaOne: Enterprise-Grade Malware Protection NinjaOne adopts a proactive stance on malware protection, shifting the focus from reactive measures to continuous monitoring of your IT infrastructure. Unlike traditional methods that rely on signature-based detection, NinjaOne employs behavioral monitoring to identify unusual activity patterns indicative of a compromise. Main features of NinjaOne Real-time antivirus protection: Integrated antivirus software powered by BitDefender scans continuously without hindering system performance. Automated software updates: Critical security updates are executed automatically, thwarting attackers before they can exploit vulnerabilities. Comprehensive dashboard: Monitor every device in real-time from a single interface, including running processes and active network connections, while detecting file encryption that signals ransomware attacks. Instant remote intervention: Quickly connect to infected machines to terminate malicious processes and restore normal operations within minutes. Automated security enforcement: Implement computer security standards across all devices, block USB ports to prevent spyware introduction, restrict unauthorized software execution, and quarantine suspicious devices. NinjaOne pricing NinjaOne offers custom pricing tailored to your needs, starting as low as .50 per month for 10,000 endpoints, with rates increasing up to .75 for 50 or fewer endpoints. Pricing may vary based on region and specific requirements. The platform also provides a 14-day free trial with full access to all features, allowing you to evaluate NinjaOne firsthand. Demos are available, but a money-back guarantee is not offered. AnyDesk: Secure Remote Access Without Compromising Security AnyDesk excels in providing secure remote desktop access without introducing new vulnerabilities to your computer security defenses. Utilizing military-grade encryption and stringent authentication protocols, AnyDesk ensures that remote sessions remain secure. Best features of AnyDesk TLS 1.2 encryption: All remote connections employ bank-level encryption, preventing unauthorized intervention and data modification during transmission. Whitelist-only access: Configure AnyDesk to accept connections only from pre-approved device IDs, effectively blocking unauthorized access attempts. Specific access levels can also be granted for each session, minimizing potential damage from compromised accounts. Session recording: AnyDesk’s built-in screen recording tool enables documentation of all remote activities for security audits and compliance, aiding in the detection of suspicious behavior patterns. No cloud relay option: Direct peer-to-peer connections eliminate reliance on cloud servers, reducing the attack surface for sensitive operations. AnyDesk Pricing AnyDesk offers a tiered pricing structure, including a free option. The free tier is limited to one device and includes basic features, making it ideal for personal use or initial testing. The first paid tier starts at .90 per month, covering one licensed user and one outgoing session, with support for up to 100 unattended devices. Pricing can reach as high as .90 per month for 100 users and 1,000 unattended devices, along with additional features such as CLI, mass deployment (MSI), and phone support. For more extensive needs, custom subscriptions can be arranged through customer support. Choosing the Right Anti-Virus Software Modern antivirus solutions must encompass capabilities that were not available when Norton Antivirus first debuted in 1991. Today’s threats are adept at hiding in memory, encrypting files for ransom, and pilfering credentials without triggering conventional virus scans. Effective virus protection now requires a combination of multiple detection methods: signature matching for known threats, behavioral analysis for zero-day attacks, and cloud intelligence that shares threat data globally in real-time. To ensure comprehensive protection, seek antivirus software that includes web protection to block malicious sites before they load, email scanning to catch phishing attempts and infected attachments, and ransomware protection that monitors file changes to thwart encryption attacks. A robust computer security software package should also feature a firewall, password manager, and VPN. Performance impact is a critical consideration; some products can significantly slow down your system, while others operate seamlessly in the background. What are the most dangerous types of viruses in 2025? The most destructive types of malware in 2025 extend far beyond traditional computer viruses that merely replicate themselves. Today’s threats are engineered to steal money, dismantle businesses, and compromise national infrastructure. Ransomware: This is arguably the most financially devastating threat. Ransomware attacks steal data, encrypt files, and threaten to publish sensitive information unless a ransom is paid. Recovery costs average million per incident, according to IBM's 2024 security report, excluding downtime and reputational damage. Fileless malware: This type of malware resides in your computer's memory, leaving no trace and evading traditional antivirus scans that search for malicious files. Info-stealers: These stealthy programs monitor your activities and harvest sensitive information, such as passwords and cryptocurrency wallet details, while remaining undetected. AI-powered malware: The latest threat category employs machine learning to evade detection, tailor attacks for specific targets, and autonomously generate new malicious code. They adapt their tactics in real-time, making them exceptionally challenging to combat with conventional protection methods." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].50 per month for 10,000 endpoints, with a 14-day free trial available. AnyDesk uses TLS 1.2 encryption for secure remote connections and allows whitelist-only access. Its pricing includes a free tier for personal use and starts at .90 per month for business use. Modern antivirus solutions must combine signature matching, behavioral analysis, and cloud intelligence to combat sophisticated threats. Effective antivirus software should also include web protection, email scanning, and ransomware protection. The most dangerous types of malware in 2025 include ransomware, fileless malware, info-stealers, and AI-powered malware, which are designed to steal money, dismantle businesses, and compromise infrastructure. Ransomware recovery costs average over million per incident, excluding downtime and reputational damage.
AppWizard
July 5, 2025
The PiKVM project allows users to control a desktop or server remotely using a Raspberry Pi 4B and an HDMI-CSI bridge adapter, providing comprehensive keyboard, video, and mouse control even during reboots. It offers browser-based access to the PC's screen in real-time, enabling actions like force shutdowns, BIOS access, and operating system reinstallation, independent of the host system's operating system. The setup captures HDMI output and simulates USB input, functioning in scenarios like BIOS or crash screens. Essential components for building a PiKVM include a Raspberry Pi 4B, an HDMI-to-CSI bridge adapter, a microSD card, USB cables, an official power supply, and the latest PiKVM OS image. The setup process involves writing the OS image to the SD card, connecting the hardware, and accessing the web interface for remote control. PiKVM is beneficial for tasks such as troubleshooting boot sequences, configuring BIOS settings, and monitoring system status without physical interaction.
AppWizard
May 21, 2025
TSplus has released version 4 of its Remote Support app for Android, which now fully supports Android TVs. This update enhances compatibility, performance, and usability, expanding device support to over 22,720 models, including both arm32 and x86 architectures. The app allows for innovative applications in various settings, such as home, retail, public transport, and events. Key features include Viewer mode for assisting others and casting presentations, and Sharer mode for secure screen sharing with remote technicians. The update also improves navigation for Android TV and optimizes network usage. Users can download the latest version from the Google Play Store.
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