scans Archives

AppWizard

April 19, 2025

Urgent Android Warning: Major Security Flaw Allows Hackers Full Access—Here Are the Apps You Must Delete Now

A vulnerability known as “Dirty Stream” was discovered by Microsoft, allowing malicious applications to hijack trusted apps on high-end Android devices. Although the flaw has been patched, any data accessed before the patch remains vulnerable. The vulnerability exploited the ContentProvider system in Android, enabling harmful apps to send deceptive files that could overwrite critical data in secure storage. Microsoft noted that this could lead to arbitrary code execution, giving attackers full control over applications and access to sensitive user data. Several popular Android apps were found to be vulnerable, with over four billion installations affected. It is crucial to promptly install security updates and maintain app vigilance to protect personal data.

Tech Optimizer

April 18, 2025

Breached Identities and Infostealers: One of the Largest Ongoing Data Leak in History

Breached identities due to infostealer malware are a significant threat to corporate information security in 2024. Infostealers are a type of remote access trojan that exfiltrate sensitive data, including saved credentials, session cookies, browser history, crypto wallet information, screen captures, and host data. Infections often stem from downloading cracked software, malicious advertising, fake Windows updates, and repackaged games. Infostealers do not require local administrative privileges, making them easy to execute. Threat actors primarily aim to profit from breached bank accounts and crypto wallets, often bypassing multi-factor authentication by targeting session cookies. They also seek credentials for subscription services and corporate access. Research shows that 90% of breached companies had leaked corporate credentials in a stealer log, with 78% experiencing leaks within six months of a breach. In comparison, 76% of similar companies without breaches had experienced a corporate stealer log compromise. The investigation identified high-criticality credentials from various corporate applications, indicating that a single user often has access to multiple credentials. The rise of infostealer malware represents a broad threat, encompassing a wide range of sensitive data. Organizations are advised to implement strategies such as restricting download privileges, avoiding illegal content, disabling macros, and regularly updating software to mitigate risks associated with infostealer malware.

Tech Optimizer

April 17, 2025

Bitdefender Antivirus review

Bitdefender Total Security offers comprehensive antivirus protection, a VPN with a daily limit of 200 MB, and specific protections for cryptocurrency mining. The software includes multi-layered antivirus protection, real-time Advanced Threat Detection, Ransomware Remediation, a firewall, and an anti-spam feature. Performance testing shows minimal impact on speed, with quick scans completing in minutes and full scans taking about 30 minutes. Additional features include a secure browser for financial transactions, a virtual keyboard, a trial password manager, webcam and microphone privacy controls, and PC optimization tools. The user interface is designed for ease of use, with a customizable dashboard and intuitive navigation. Support options include phone, chat, and email, with quick transitions to live agents. Bitdefender typically retails at .99 annually, with competitors offering lower introductory prices.

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.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

The Windows 11 April update is wreaking havoc with Windows Hello login processes

The Windows 11 update KB5055523 has caused significant issues with the Windows Hello facial recognition feature, leading to login errors for users. Many have reported receiving the message “Couldn’t recognize you” when attempting to log in. One user noted that after several clean installs and using a compatible Logitech Brio 4k webcam, the infrared face scans malfunctioned, with the IR lights interfering with face recognition. Some users found temporary relief by disabling the RGB camera, but this solution is not universal. The most effective remedy has been to uninstall the update and wait for a fix from Microsoft. Users may also consider using a fingerprint scanner as a backup option.

Tech Optimizer

April 13, 2025

Panda Dome review

Panda Security, a Spanish antivirus company, has introduced various cybersecurity innovations since its founding, including daily signature updates in 1998, behavioral monitoring in 2004, and cloud scanning in 2007. It offers several plans for home users: Panda Dome Essential, Advanced, Complete, and Premium, each with increasing features such as firewall protection, WiFi security, online shopping safeguards, and a Dark Web Scanner. All plans include a 30-day free trial. Panda Dome received an AAA award from SE Labs for a Total Accuracy Rating of 99% without false positives between October and December 2024, outperforming Microsoft Defender and Webroot but not achieving the perfect scores of Avast, Kaspersky, and McAfee. The AV-Test Product Review awarded Panda a score of 6/6 for protection and usability, and 5.5/6 for performance. However, Panda Free Antivirus had a higher number of false alarms in AV-Comparatives’ False Alarm Test. The Panda Dome Advanced plan, priced at .99 for the first year, includes parental controls and enhanced ransomware protection. It offers multiple scanning options and reasonable scan times. Its anti-ransomware features include behavior-based detection, file access control, and backup capabilities. Panda Dome Complete, priced at .99 for the first year, adds system cleanup tools and a password manager, allowing users to optimize system performance and securely manage passwords. It also includes file encryption and shredding features. Panda Dome Premium, priced at .99 for the first year, provides unrestricted VPN access, an update manager, and unlimited premium technical support. It allows secure browsing across over 60 countries for up to five devices and includes features to keep systems updated and secure.

Tech Optimizer

April 12, 2025

I abandoned third-party antivirus tools, and here’s what I do instead

The author has transitioned from using third-party antivirus solutions to relying on Windows Security, which is built into Windows 10 and 11, due to its effectiveness and lack of cost. They emphasize the importance of keeping Windows Security updated and performing regular virus scans for added peace of mind. Ransomware protection features, such as Controlled Folder Access, are highlighted as essential. The Microsoft PC Manager app is recommended for optimizing system performance and security. The author advocates for good security hygiene, including avoiding suspicious emails and enabling two-factor authentication, as effective practices to maintain security without third-party antivirus software.

Tech Optimizer

April 11, 2025

Announcing pgvector 0.8.0 support in Aurora PostgreSQL

Amazon Aurora PostgreSQL-Compatible Edition has integrated support for pgvector 0.8.0, an open-source extension for storing vector embeddings in databases, enhancing its capabilities for generative AI applications, particularly in semantic search and retrieval-augmented generation. The new version improves the PostgreSQL query planner's index selection, elevating query performance and search result quality. It refines data filtering through WHERE clauses and joins, and features iterative index scans to prevent overfiltering, ensuring sufficient query results. Additionally, pgvector 0.8.0 enhances performance for searching and constructing HNSW indexes. This version is available in Amazon Aurora clusters on PostgreSQL versions 16.8, 15.12, 14.17, and 13.20 or higher, across all AWS Regions except China. Users can upgrade by modifying their DB cluster settings.

Winsage

April 10, 2025

Windows 11 tests sharing apps screen and files with Copilot AI

Copilot on Windows 11 is being tested for OS-level integration that allows users to share app screens with the AI assistant, currently available to Windows Insiders in the U.S. This feature, known as Copilot Vision, enables real-time assistance by analyzing screen content and providing guidance. The functionality is cloud-based, not relying on local AI models. Users can share their screens by clicking an icon in the Copilot app and can stop sharing at any time. Additionally, a "File Search" feature allows users to find documents using natural language queries, capable of reading various file formats like .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, .txt, .pdf, and .json. Both features are being gradually rolled out within the Windows Insider Program, with more information on data processing and privacy expected as they progress beyond testing.

Tech Optimizer

April 10, 2025

6 overlooked security practices I implemented at home and I regret not using sooner

- Safeguarding technology is crucial in the digital age due to potential threats from various devices. - Two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances online account security by requiring a second code sent to a phone, email, or authentication app. - Biometric verification methods and hardware authentication devices like YubiKeys can further enhance security. - Backup codes should be printed when setting up 2FA, and passkeys offer a passwordless solution for securing accounts. - Ransomware can lock users out of data until a ransom is paid, and Windows 10 and 11 have a feature called Controlled Folder Access (CFA) to protect essential folders. - Windows Security provides baseline protection for PCs, and users should regularly check for updates and conduct manual scans. - Microsoft's PC Manager utility enhances system security by offering features for storage and app management alongside virus scanning. - Securing web browsers is vital, with unique settings available in browsers like Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Chrome to improve privacy and security. - Regularly clearing browsing history and keeping browsers updated helps mitigate risks from malware and phishing attacks. - Securing Wi-Fi routers involves changing the default admin password and SSID, using strong encryption like WPA3, and regularly updating firmware. - Custom firmware like DD-WRT or OpenWrt can enhance router security and functionality.