safety Archives

Tech Optimizer

November 5, 2024

Neon Authorize: Granular access controls at the database layer

Neon has launched Neon Authorize, a feature that enhances permission and access control management for developers using its serverless Postgres database. This feature incorporates Postgres Row-Level Security (RLS) to protect data from unauthorized access, allowing for the establishment of authorization policies at the database level. Recent findings from OWASP indicate that broken access control is a significant risk in web application security, with 94% of applications tested showing vulnerabilities. RLS enables database administrators to control user access at a granular level, making it particularly useful for multi-tenant applications. Neon Authorize simplifies the integration of authentication providers, allowing developers to authenticate database calls using JSON Web Tokens (JWT). Andy Young from Lockdown Ventures noted that adopting Neon Authorize improved security, simplified application code, and enhanced performance, with the migration process taking less than a day.

AppWizard

November 5, 2024

Upcoming Google Play update could strengthen protection against harmful apps (APK teardown)

Google is developing a feature for its Play Store that allows users to temporarily pause Play Protect for one day instead of disabling it completely. This feature aims to enhance user safety by automatically reactivating Play Protect after the pause period and includes a warning prompt about potential scams when users attempt to pause or turn off the security feature. The feature is expected to be available to users in the near future.

AppWizard

November 1, 2024

Google Search widget brings back Custom color option on Android

Android Auto has stopped functioning for devices running Android 8 or earlier versions. The minimum requirement for using Android Auto has been raised to Android 9 or higher as of July this year. Previously, Android Auto was compatible with devices running Android 6 and above, but Google increased the minimum requirement to Android 8 in July 2022. Users of Android 8 devices now receive notifications that their phones no longer support Android Auto. While older software may still allow some functionalities, newer versions like Android 9 provide improved features and user experience.

Winsage

October 31, 2024

Microsoft really wants you to upgrade to Windows 11, but you can pay $30 to use Windows 10 one more year

Microsoft is reminding users of the benefits of transitioning to Windows 11 as support for Windows 10 nears its end. Users can pay for an Extended Security Update (ESU) program to receive an additional year of critical security updates for Windows 10, but no new features will be added during this time. This is the first ESU program offered specifically for consumers, while businesses can extend updates for up to three years at a higher cost. Windows 10 devices on Windows 365 with Windows 11 cloud PCs will continue to receive updates at no extra cost. Microsoft encourages users to upgrade to Windows 11, which is free for compatible PCs, and offers transition assistance for businesses. For users whose PCs do not meet Windows 11 requirements, purchasing a new device is recommended for better performance.

Winsage

October 31, 2024

Microsoft offers security extension on Windows 10 after October 2025, but it’ll cost you

Microsoft has announced an additional year of security support for Windows 10 through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, available to all users until October 14, 2026, for a fee. This marks a departure from traditional free updates and is aimed at individuals and organizations that have not transitioned to Windows 11.

AppWizard

October 31, 2024

Google highlights an earlier Android 16 in Q2 2025 and more for Gemini

Google announced plans for more frequent Android SDK releases starting in 2025, with a significant update expected in Q2, likely related to Android 16, prompting earlier annual compatibility testing for developers. Enhancements to Gemini in Android Studio include features for modifying code, generating commit messages, and creating documentation, along with auto-generating composable previews. In the Play Store, Google is introducing a full-screen mode for portrait videos, a more prominent install button, and personalized query recommendations, initially supporting English. On-device biometric authentication for app purchases has been integrated, allowing fingerprint or facial recognition for transactions. Google has doubled purchase numbers in 2024 and increased conversion rates by nearly 3% by encouraging users to set up payment methods, now including PayPal and Cash App. The Play Integrity API is being enhanced to help developers protect their applications against security threats, with the "app access risk" feature now available to detect privacy-compromising apps.

Winsage

October 31, 2024

Windows 11 performance booster Microsoft PC Manager adds new features

Microsoft's PC Manager is receiving an update to version 3.14, which introduces new features for Windows 11 and Windows 10 users. Key improvements include real-time internet speed monitoring from the desktop toolbar and an upgraded disk cleanup algorithm for better storage optimization. Developed by Microsoft China, PC Manager is available in select countries via the Microsoft Store but is not accessible in Europe and some other regions due to privacy regulations. The application helps free up RAM and storage to enhance PC performance. The update, which began rolling out on October 24, also supports Windows 11’s Widgets board, allowing users to boost performance directly from the widgets. Additionally, the deep cleanup feature has been enhanced to identify and remove more temporary files than built-in Windows solutions, and users can now analyze disk usage for better storage management.

AppWizard

October 30, 2024

In Toilet Spiders, there sure are a heck of a lot of toilets, and a heck of a lot of spiders

Players navigate an abandoned nuclear facility filled with toilets, searching for items like keys and security passes while encountering spiders. The game features a Geiger counter that becomes less effective due to the constant presence of spiders, leading players to rely on auditory cues. Players can use limited resources like lightbulbs and flashbang grenades to fend off spiders, but they have only three lives. The spiders have a cartoonish design and predictable behavior, creating a more playful atmosphere than a terrifying one. The game offers an hour of gameplay but is criticized for its repetitive nature and lack of compelling horror elements.

Tech Optimizer

October 29, 2024

How PostgreSQL Enhances Performance and Scalability in IoT Solutions

PostgreSQL is an open-source relational database system favored for its versatility, extensibility, and ability to handle large volumes of data and complex queries efficiently. In 2024, approximately 57,629 companies adopted PostgreSQL, reflecting its growing popularity in IoT applications. PostgreSQL supports scalable IoT application development through custom data types, advanced indexing options (like B-tree and GiST), and JSON/JSONB support for semi-structured data. Its indexing techniques enhance performance, particularly for geolocation data, while partitioning allows for manageable data handling in rapidly growing datasets. PostgreSQL effectively manages time-series data through TimescaleDB, optimizing storage and retrieval for historical information. High availability features, such as asynchronous replication and point-in-time recovery, ensure data integrity and resilience in IoT systems.

Winsage

October 28, 2024

Windows 11 might not update if you have these apps

Microsoft has implemented a thorough scan of hardware and installed software for potential incompatibilities before initiating Windows updates, pausing the process if any issues are detected. The rollout of the Windows 11 24H2 update has seen an increase in upgrade blocks, affecting certain Asus laptops, integrated webcams, and fingerprint sensors. Specific incompatibilities include Gameloft’s Asphalt 8: Airborne, the Safe Exam Browser, Easy Anti-Cheat, various wallpaper customization tools, and Intel Smart Sound Technology, which requires a driver update. Microsoft is working to address these issues to minimize user intervention.