security features Archives

AppWizard

July 3, 2025

One UI 8 gives you more control over where your Secure Folder apps pop up

Samsung is enhancing the security features of its Galaxy smartphones through the Knox security framework, particularly with the Secure Folder that requires additional authentication for sensitive content. The recent One UI 8 update introduces new controls for quick access to the Secure Folder, including the ability to hide the folder and associated apps. A new setting allows users to manage whether apps in the Secure Folder appear as sharing options in other applications, enabling content sharing from standard apps to those secured within the folder. The beta version of One UI 8, based on Android 16, has received positive feedback, with a significant release rolling out recently. Official announcements regarding the stable release are anticipated shortly after July 9.

Winsage

July 2, 2025

How to secure your printer with Windows 11’s new Protected Print mode

Nine percent of Windows security issues are attributed to its printing system. In 2021, a flaw in the printer spooler, known as "Print Nightmare," was discovered, allowing attackers elevated system rights. Microsoft introduced Windows Protected Print mode (WPP) in the Windows 11 24H2 update to address these vulnerabilities. WPP replaces manufacturer-specific drivers and prevents the installation of new printer drivers, limiting printer spooler tasks to user rights. WPP is based on the Internet Print Protocol (IPP) and is compatible with printers certified by the Mobile Printing Alliance. Users must manually enable WPP through the Settings menu. Once activated, Windows manages print jobs using its WPP driver, and users can find additional tools in the Microsoft Store. To deactivate WPP, users can return to the Settings and remove it, which requires reinstalling the original manufacturer’s drivers.

Winsage

July 2, 2025

Microsoft quietly installed ‘secret’ update on some Windows 10 and 11 PCs

Microsoft has rolled out a "force-installed" update, designated as KB5001716, for Windows 10 and 11 PCs. This update serves as a supplementary patch for Windows Update, enabling the download and installation of feature updates for devices nearing the end of support. It may also display notifications about issues preventing Windows Update from keeping the device up-to-date. The primary aim of KB5001716 is to address the end of support for Windows 10, facilitating feature updates for systems running versions that are expired or nearing expiration. Users receiving this update are informed that their current version of Windows is approaching its end of life, including Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2, and Windows 11 version 21H2.

Winsage

June 29, 2025

Microsoft Confirms 2 Free Offers—Windows Users Must Now Choose

Microsoft has abandoned its October deadline for Windows 10, affecting approximately 700 million users who can choose to remain on Windows 10 or upgrade to Windows 11. About 400 million users are eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11, while around 240 million cannot upgrade due to hardware requirements. Users can extend support for Windows 10 until October 2026 through cloud backup, redeeming rewards points, or paying a nominal fee. Windows 10 will receive security updates for the next 12 months, but Windows 11 offers enhanced security features. Microsoft emphasizes the importance of upgrading to Windows 11 for better security. Concerns exist about user inertia and the potential slowdown in upgrade momentum. The extended support tool will soon be available to all users, and those unable to upgrade are advised to utilize it.

Winsage

June 28, 2025

Windows 10 is almost dead, but Flyby11 can help your old PC upgrade to Windows 11

Windows 10 will reach its end-of-life status by the end of 2025, leaving users vulnerable to cyber threats unless they upgrade. Flyby11 is a tool that enables users to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 by bypassing Microsoft's system requirements, allowing installation without checks for TPM 2.0 or specific CPU models. It can also patch USB installation drives for clean installs on unsupported PCs. However, it requires the POPCNT instruction, which has been standard in processors since around 2010; if a PC lacks this feature, Windows 11 will not boot. While Flyby11 offers a way to receive security updates, it may lead to instability and performance issues, particularly on older hardware. Exploring Linux distributions is suggested as an alternative for users with aging PCs, as they are optimized for older hardware and provide long-term support.

Tech Optimizer

June 28, 2025

We asked cybersecurity experts to build a privacy toolbox for $10 per month – here’s what they came up with, and more

In the digital landscape, online activities are monitored, leading to targeted advertising, scams, and privacy breaches. Individuals can enhance their digital security through various tools, including VPNs, antivirus software, password managers, secure browsers, encrypted messaging apps, and data removal services. VPNs protect internet traffic through encryption, with options like Mo Harber-Lamond at .91/month, Surfshark starting at .99/month, and ExpressVPN from .99/month. Antivirus software, such as Amber Bouman at .17/month, Norton 360 Deluxe from .17/month, and Malwarebytes Plus from .81/month, defends against malware and phishing. Password managers like Amber Bouman at .99/month, Bitwarden (free), and NordPass from .29/month help secure passwords. Secure browsers include George Phillips (free), Vivaldi (free), and Tor (free), which prioritize user privacy. Encrypted messaging apps like George Phillips (free), Session (free), and Threema (one-time payment) enhance communication security. Data removal services, such as Mo Harber-Lamond at .29/month, Optery from .99/month, and PrivacyBee from .99/month, help reduce personal data exposure. Budget-friendly options for privacy tools can be assembled for under /month, while premium bundles can cost around /month. The highest privacy-focused bundle totals /month, featuring Mullvad VPN, Proton Pass, Tor, and Session. Mobile privacy protection can be achieved for .01/month with NordVPN and Bitdefender Mobile Security. The Proton Unlimited bundle, priced at .99/month, offers an all-in-one solution with various encrypted services.

AppWizard

June 27, 2025

Your Android phone is getting a big security upgrade for free

Google has introduced various security features for Android users to protect against scams and malware. Key enhancements include: 1. Protection against scam calls with warnings and blocking actions related to disabling Google Play Protect, sideloading apps, and granting accessibility permissions. Screen sharing reminders will be provided on devices running Android 6 or higher. 2. In-call protections for banking apps, alerting users to potential risks when sharing screens with unknown callers, available for participating banks on devices running Android 11 or higher. 3. Improved scam detection in Google Messages, targeting various types of scams, including job scams, cryptocurrency scams, and technical support scams. 4. The Key Verifier tool for verifying contact identities through public encryption keys, ensuring private conversations. 5. Enhanced mobile theft protection with the Identity Check tool expanding to more devices running Android 16, reinforced protections against unauthorized factory resets, and hidden one-time passwords on the lock screen. 6. An Advanced Protection Program for targeted attacks, cryptographically verifying login operations on devices running Android 16. 7. Improvements to Google Play Protect, utilizing new on-device rules for malware detection and providing warnings about potentially malicious apps. 8. Ongoing commitment to enhancing overall Android security with each new version and updates to Google Play services.

TrendTechie

June 27, 2025

5 Best VPNs for uTorrent in 2025: Fast & Secure Downloads

ExpressVPN is recommended as the best VPN for torrenting with uTorrent in 2025, offering support for P2P sharing in 105 countries, high download speeds, and strong security features. It includes a Lightway protocol, split tunneling, and Advanced Protection, along with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Other notable VPNs include Private Internet Access, which supports P2P on all servers in 91 countries and offers a SOCKS5 proxy; CyberGhost, with torrent-optimized servers in over 85 countries; NordVPN, known for its advanced security features and support for torrenting in over 110 countries; and Surfshark, which provides automatic IP rotation in 49+ countries. The testing methodology focused on reliable P2P support, strong security measures, fast download speeds, user-friendly apps, and value for money.

Winsage

June 26, 2025

Windows killed the Blue Screen of Death

Windows has replaced the Blue Screen of Death with a new Black Screen of Death. This change marks a significant shift in error screens that began with Windows 1.0 in 1985. The update follows the CrowdStrike outage that affected 8.5 million Windows devices and led to the introduction of the Windows Resiliency Initiative, aimed at enhancing security and reducing disruptions from unexpected restarts. The new Black Screen of Death features a "simplified UI" and includes a quick machine recovery feature to help PCs regain functionality faster after unsuccessful restarts.

Tech Optimizer

June 26, 2025

This Cheap Surfshark VPN + Antivirus Bundle Feels Illegal (But It’s Not)

Surfshark is currently offering a biennial plan for its VPN and antivirus bundle at an 85% discount, reducing the price from .95 per month to .69 per month, totaling for the first 27 months. The package includes three complimentary months of service and a 30-day money-back guarantee. It features unlimited connections, applications for all devices, advanced security features, and customer support. The antivirus component provides real-time protection, webcam safeguards, and scheduled scans. Additional features include Camouflage Mode, MultiHop, Alternative ID, Alert, and Search. Monthly plans are available at higher prices, and the Starter plan does not include antivirus protection.