robust security Archives

AppWizard

April 9, 2025

Google releases enterprise-grade Gemini tier in Android Studio

Google has introduced a new version of Gemini for Android Studio, specifically designed for businesses. This version ensures that company code is not saved by Google and is not used for AI model training. It includes IP protection against claims related to AI-generated code. The offering, available through Gemini Code Assist Standard or Enterprise subscriptions, enhances existing features with security and IP protections, including tools like build and sync error support and App Quality Insights. Google emphasizes its commitment to security with certifications such as SOC 1/2/3 and ISO/IEC 27001. Additionally, businesses benefit from IP indemnification against copyright infringement claims related to AI-generated code. The enterprise-grade version can be accessed via the Android Studio Narwhal build on the Canary release channel with an eligible Gemini Code Assist license.

Winsage

April 9, 2025

4 reasons I use virtual hard disks in Windows, and you should too

Creating virtual hard disks (VHD or VHDX) in Windows 11 23H2 and later is straightforward through the Settings app. Users can create a VHD by navigating to Settings -> System -> Storage -> Advanced storage settings -> Disks and volumes, where they can choose to create a VHD or Dev Drive. The VHD format supports up to 2040GB, while VHDX supports up to 64TB and offers resilience during power failures. VHDX can be encrypted with BitLocker for password protection. Virtual disks can be shared over a network, enhancing efficiency by eliminating the need for physical media. They are cost-effective compared to physical drives, reducing hardware costs and potential points of failure. The Hyper-V hypervisor provides a versatile platform for these virtual drives, which offer portability, flexibility, ease of sharing, efficient backups, and robust security, though they may have slower performance than SSDs and limited native boot support for Windows.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Microsoft adds hotpatching support for Windows 11 enterprise users as it looks to end unnecessary downtime for work devices

Microsoft has introduced hotpatch updates for Windows 11 Enterprise version 24H2, allowing compatible business devices to install OS security patches without requiring a restart. This feature minimizes downtime and user disruption while maintaining security. Hotpatch updates take effect immediately and provide the same level of security as traditional Patch Tuesday releases. Companies must establish a hotpatch-enabled quality update policy through Microsoft Intune to implement this feature. Devices will still require a reboot for security updates installed quarterly, but updates can occur without a restart during the other months. Arm64 devices are currently in public preview, with general availability for hotpatching set for April 2, 2025.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Is Windows 11 Finally Better Than Windows 10 For Gaming?

Windows 11 has introduced several gaming-focused enhancements that are not present in Windows 10, including: - DirectStorage: Optimized for Windows 11, this technology allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, reducing load times. - Auto HDR: Enhances older games by automatically applying high dynamic range lighting effects for users with HDR-capable monitors. - Improved Scheduling for Hybrid CPUs: Offers better task scheduling for Intel's 12th or 13th generation CPUs, resulting in smoother frame rates during CPU-intensive gaming sessions. Benchmark tests show minimal performance differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight FPS improvements in some titles on Windows 11, especially when using advanced hardware and DirectStorage. As of March 2025, over 55% of Windows users on Steam have transitioned to Windows 11, indicating growing confidence in the operating system among gamers. Windows 11 has addressed many early bugs and driver issues, providing robust stability on compatible systems. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0 and UEFI secure boot. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, making it a viable option for users with older hardware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, rounded corners, and expanded personalization options. It also simplifies the update process with annual feature updates and smaller, faster security updates. Windows 11 enhances integration with Microsoft services, supports Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, and introduces productivity tools like Snap Layouts and improved Task View. Security improvements include mandatory TPM 2.0, enhanced Windows Defender, and a redesigned privacy dashboard for better user control over app permissions. Despite its advancements, Windows 11 has limitations such as ongoing stability issues, driver compatibility concerns, and a simplified taskbar that lacks certain functionalities from Windows 10. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices through Windows Update.

Tech Optimizer

April 2, 2025

Over 1,500 PostgreSQL Servers Hit by Fileless Malware Attack

A malware campaign has compromised over 1,500 PostgreSQL servers using fileless techniques to deploy cryptomining payloads. The attack, linked to the threat actor group JINX-0126, exploits publicly exposed PostgreSQL instances with weak or default credentials. The attackers utilize advanced evasion tactics, including unique hashes for binaries and fileless execution of the miner payload, making detection difficult. They exploit PostgreSQL’s COPY ... FROM PROGRAM function to execute malicious payloads and perform system discovery commands. The malware includes a binary named “postmaster,” which mimics legitimate processes, and a secondary binary named “cpu_hu” for cryptomining operations. Nearly 90% of cloud environments host PostgreSQL databases, with about one-third being publicly exposed, providing easy entry points for attackers. Each wallet associated with the campaign had around 550 active mining workers, indicating the extensive scale of the attack. Organizations are advised to implement strong security configurations to protect their PostgreSQL instances.

Tech Optimizer

April 1, 2025

This Antivirus Software Is So Strong That It Will Humiliate The Bad Guys Of The Cyber World (50% Off)

Bitdefender offers comprehensive protection against current and emerging online threats with a lightweight design that maintains device performance. It is currently providing a 50% discount on its multi-device bundles, including the Total Security bundle, which covers up to five devices across various platforms for an introductory price. The Internet Security and Antivirus Plus bundles are also available at discounted rates for Windows PCs. All bundles include features like File Shredder, Social Network Protection, and safe online banking through Safepay. Bitdefender utilizes advanced AI technology to predict and neutralize threats while optimizing device performance.

AppWizard

March 31, 2025

Avoid Downloading Apps From Untrusted Sources, Google Warns Android Users

Google warns Android users about the risks of downloading apps from sources outside the Google Play Store, noting that such apps are 50 times more likely to contain malware. In 2023, Google removed around 2.3 million suspicious apps from the Play Store and banned over 300 apps that circumvented Android's security measures, which had over 60 million downloads and were involved in deceptive advertising and phishing schemes. Google is enhancing its Play Protect Live Threat Detection system to combat fake and dangerous apps. Recommendations for protecting phones include downloading apps only from the Google Play Store, checking reviews and ratings, installing security updates, and avoiding unknown links.

Winsage

March 31, 2025

10 Facts you probably didn’t know about Windows as Microsoft turns 50

- Windows was originally named "Interface Manager" before being changed to "Windows" prior to its launch in 1985. - Early versions of Windows (1.0, 2.0, and 3.x) operated on top of MS-DOS and required users to boot into MS-DOS before launching the graphical interface. - The Briefcase folder was an early tool for synchronizing files between computers, which became obsolete with the rise of cloud storage solutions. - Prior to Windows XP, user profiles were basic and lacked robust security; full user accounts were implemented with Windows NT. - Several applications from Windows 1.0, including Calculator, Paint, Notepad, Clock, and Control Panel, are still present in Windows 11 in modernized forms. - The "Format" dialog in File Explorer has used the same code for over 30 years, although updates for FAT32 support are being developed. - TrueType fonts were introduced in Windows 3.1 in 1992 through a licensing agreement with Apple, improving font rendering quality. - The "Ctrl + Alt + Delete" shortcut was created by IBM engineer David Bradley as a debugging tool and later adopted by Microsoft for secure attention sequences in Windows NT. - Windows 1.0 required a minimum of 256KB of RAM at its launch in 1985, while Windows 11 requires at least 4GB.

AppWizard

March 28, 2025

Ahead of Signal leak, Pentagon warned of app’s weaknesses

The Pentagon has issued a warning about the security of the messaging application Signal, advising against its use for any communications, including unclassified ones, due to concerns over hacking vulnerabilities following a significant leak. This advisory reflects an increased awareness of cybersecurity threats and the need for robust security measures in communications, prompting individuals and organizations to reconsider their reliance on Signal and explore alternatives.

Tech Optimizer

March 27, 2025

Do Macs need antivirus? Debunking the security myth

Many users believe that Macs are immune to cybersecurity threats, leading them to neglect protective measures. This perception originated from Apple's marketing and the historical lower targeting of Macs due to their smaller market share. However, as the popularity of Macs has increased, so has the development of malware aimed at macOS. Reports indicate that malware targeting Macs has now outpaced that targeting Windows on a per-device basis. While macOS includes strong security features like XProtect, Gatekeeper, and System Integrity Protection, these are not foolproof. XProtect only defends against known malware, leaving users vulnerable to new threats. Macs are susceptible to various types of malware, including adware, Trojans, and phishing attacks. Antivirus software is important for Macs as it protects against evolving malware, shields users from phishing and online scams, enhances privacy protection, and prevents cross-platform threats.