safety features Archives

AppWizard

February 21, 2025

Messenger rolls out new safety, useful, and fun features

Meta has updated Messenger with new features focusing on privacy, usability, and enjoyment. Privacy and safety updates include the View Once Media option for single-view media messages, screenshot and screen recording blocks, in-app scam alerts via Spam Protection, and streamlined reporting and blocking of suspicious contacts. Usability improvements consist of HD photo sharing, enhanced HD video calls, noise-suppressed audio for clearer calls, and Siri integration for easier navigation. Expressive features allow users to personalize chats with themes, add music to notes, and use new sticker packs, including the Butterbear stickers. Social features encourage community building through Messenger Communities, enabling topic-based chats via QR codes, and engaging with public figures through Broadcast Channels.

Tech Optimizer

February 18, 2025

Microsoft Defender vs. McAfee: Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons

eSecurity Planet maintains editorial independence and may earn revenue from partner links. Microsoft Defender, a free built-in antivirus for Windows, offers minimal configuration and supports Windows 10 and 11, while McAfee, which holds a 12.47% share of the global antivirus market, provides extensive privacy monitoring and data protection across multiple platforms (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS) with various pricing plans ranging from .99 to 9.99. Microsoft Defender supports a single device and includes features like real-time threat protection, parental controls, and a firewall, but lacks advanced features like VPN and identity theft monitoring. McAfee offers a wider range of features, including a VPN, identity theft monitoring, and data cleanup, making it a more comprehensive solution despite its higher cost. Microsoft Defender has an overall rating of 3.8/5, while McAfee rates 4.4/5, excelling in customer support with multiple channels, including live chat and phone support. Microsoft Defender is suitable for users on a budget, while McAfee is better for those needing robust privacy and identity protection. Alternatives to consider include Norton, Bitdefender, and Malwarebytes.

AppWizard

February 11, 2025

Minecraft’s Top 5 Tips for Safer Gaming

Minecraft is promoting "Top 5 Tips for Safe Gaming" in recognition of Safer Internet Day on February 11, aimed at supporting families in Australia and New Zealand. Recent statistics show that 89% of individuals aged 8-17 in Australia engage in online gaming, with 40% having interacted with strangers and over half of teen gamers encountering harmful content. In New Zealand, 80% of children aged 8-17 are involved in online gaming, with half of teenagers reporting conflicts with friends due to gaming. The tips include: 1. Understand Online Interactions: Teach children not to share personal information, use reporting tools, and maintain open dialogue about interactions. 2. Set Up A Child Account: Use the Xbox Family Settings App for age-appropriate accounts and content settings. 3. Recognise In-Game Purchases: Differentiate between virtual currency and real money, set spending limits, and review purchase requests. 4. Balance Screen Time: Create a balanced schedule for gaming and other activities, set playtime limits, and encourage breaks. 5. Build a Safe Online World: Help set up private servers, use moderation tools, and organize supervised activities within the game.

Winsage

December 4, 2024

Microsoft Announces Security Update with Windows Resiliency Initiative

Microsoft has launched the Windows Resiliency Initiative to enhance the security and reliability of its operating system in response to a significant CrowdStrike outage that affected over 8 million Windows PCs and servers, resulting in losses estimated at .4 billion. The initiative focuses on four key areas: learning from past incidents, reducing administrative privileges, implementing stronger controls for apps and drivers, and improving identity protection. Key components include: 1. Quick Machine Recovery: Allows IT administrators to remotely diagnose and repair devices, reducing downtime. 2. Administrative Protection: Users will operate under standard accounts by default to limit unauthorized access. 3. Smart App Control: Ensures only verified applications can run on Windows PCs. 4. Advanced Identity Protection: Enhancements include stronger password policies and multi-factor authentication. Additional improvements involve collaboration with security vendors, new encryption features, and transitioning components from C++ to Rust for better code security. The initiative aims to restore user confidence and prevent future cyber threats.

AppWizard

November 14, 2024

Google’s new app will help warn you about nude images in Messages

Google has started rolling out the Android System SafetyCore app via Google Play, which will enhance user safety by powering the Sensitive Content Warnings feature in the Google Messages app. This feature aims to provide alerts about the risks associated with sending or receiving nude images, blurring potentially explicit images before they are displayed. The Sensitive Content Warnings feature will be available on devices running Android 9 or later, with adults having the option to activate it, while users under 18 will be automatically opted in. The Android System SafetyCore app serves as a system service providing safety features for Android devices and supports the contact verification feature in Google Messages. It is described as an "Android system component that provides privacy-preserving on-device user protection infrastructure for apps" and may eventually be available on Google TV.

AppWizard

November 12, 2024

Google Home tipped to integrate support for dangerous air quality sensors

A recent exploration of a test version of the Google Home app has revealed code strings suggesting potential support for carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, allowing users to receive alerts about hazardous air quality and sensor testing. Currently, the Nest app is the only platform managing these sensors, but integration into the Google Home app could create a more unified control system. The Matter 1.2 upgrade includes provisions for smoke and CO detector support, aiming to reduce the number of apps needed for device management. The timeline for the launch of a potential "future Nest Protect" remains unclear.

AppWizard

November 12, 2024

Google Home could soon support smoke and CO sensors (APK teardown)

The Google Home app is expected to integrate support for smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) sensors, enhancing user experience for smart home safety. An APK teardown revealed code indicating the app will allow location-based functionality for managing smoke and CO devices, notifications for detection alerts, testing capabilities for device functionality, and alerts for device maintenance. This integration aims to consolidate control over safety devices within the app, improving automation and user convenience. Compatibility with the existing Nest Protect model is still uncertain.

AppWizard

October 25, 2024

Roblox to bolster child safety measures

Roblox is implementing changes to its child safety features in November, requiring parental permission for children aged 13 and under to access chat functionalities and for players aged nine and below to engage with games featuring "moderate violence or crude humour." The platform will also introduce parental accounts for guardians to monitor their children's activities. These updates respond to a report from Hindenburg Research alleging insufficient measures against child predators, which Roblox has denied, asserting the platform's security.

Winsage

October 19, 2024

Google Reveals New Chrome Update—Microsoft Warns Windows Users To Change Your Browser

Google's Chrome holds a 65% market share and faces potential break-up actions from the Department of Justice. Microsoft is promoting its Edge browser to Windows users, highlighting enhanced security features through Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. Microsoft encourages enterprises to adopt Edge, suggesting that employees may also use it at home, threatening Chrome's user base. In response, Google has launched a campaign to reassure its 3 billion Chrome users about its security measures, emphasizing its innovations and commitment to user safety. Google is also addressing privacy concerns related to tracking cookies and plans to introduce an opt-in tracking mechanism, while Microsoft is developing the “Privacy-Preserving Ads API” for Edge. Both companies are focusing on security and privacy as key competitive factors. Chrome has recently updated to version 130.0.6723.58/.59, and users are advised to restart their browsers after the update for optimal security.

Winsage

October 6, 2024

Get a lifetime license to Microsoft Windows 11 Pro for just $18 (Reg. up to $199)

Windows 11 Pro is available for a limited-time offer of .97, reduced from the regular price of 9, until September 29. It features advanced safety measures, AI integration with Copilot, remote desktop capabilities, biometric logins, BitLocker encryption, and enhanced tools for creative professionals, such as AI-driven background removal in Paint.