security measure Archives

AppWizard

June 3, 2025

WhatsApp and iMessage competitor: Elon Musk announces new Vchat messenger

Elon Musk has introduced XChat, a secure messaging service aimed at transforming X (formerly Twitter) into a comprehensive communication platform. XChat focuses on privacy, file sharing, and cross-platform calling, competing with established messaging services like WhatsApp and Telegram. It is developed using Rust and features Bitcoin-style encryption and end-to-end encryption to ensure message confidentiality. Currently in beta testing, XChat will be rolled out to more users soon, although no official launch date has been set. This service is part of Musk's vision to create a "super app" that combines social networking, digital payments, media sharing, and private communication, similar to WeChat. Analysts believe XChat could significantly influence the development of Web3 applications and challenge traditional messaging platforms to innovate in security and functionality.

Tech Optimizer

May 28, 2025

M&S shoppers urged to set up security measure on ‘all accounts’

M&S shoppers are being urged to enhance their online security following a cyber attack that disrupted customer services. The retailer has acknowledged ongoing challenges, stating they cannot process online orders while stores remain open. Sensitive customer information, including phone numbers, email addresses, and order histories, was compromised in the breach. Security expert Luis Corrons from Norton recommends activating two-step verification for online accounts, being cautious about stored personal and payment information, deleting unused accounts, using strong passwords, and keeping devices and software updated to improve security. He emphasizes that cyber threats are increasingly targeting human behavior and that these security measures are essential for digital safety.

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

APK Full Form in Android: Explained for Gamers and App Lovers

APK stands for Android Application Package, which is a file format essential for distributing, installing, and managing mobile applications on the Android platform. An APK contains all the necessary code, resources, and instructions for an app to run on Android devices. Key components of an APK include DEX files (app code), assets and resources (images, sounds, layouts), certificates and security signatures (for verification), and the AndroidManifest.xml file (which outlines permissions and components). When an app is installed, the APK is unpacked, permissions are granted, and its integrity is verified through digital signatures. APK files support various applications and games, allowing for manual installations and updates, and they ensure universal compatibility across devices. Users can adjust security settings to allow installations from unknown sources, but Android restricts this by default for safety.

AppWizard

April 28, 2025

For Android users: How to secure your Instagram account

Two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances online account security by requiring a second form of verification in addition to a password. To enable 2FA on Instagram, users should: open the app, go to their profile, tap the menu icon, select "Settings," navigate to "Security," and choose "Two-Factor Authentication." Users can receive verification codes via text message or an authentication app. This measure helps protect accounts even if a password is compromised.

AppWizard

April 16, 2025

Android 16 could bring Identity Check to more smartphones

The Identity Check feature has been observed on the OnePlus 13 operating with the Android 16 beta, indicating an expansion of its availability beyond select Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices. This feature adds a layer of security for devices outside designated trusted locations and requires a comprehensive system update due to modifications in Android's biometric prompt code. Users can find the Identity Check option in the Settings > Google > Theft Protection menu after upgrading to Android 16. To use Identity Check, users must authenticate their identity through biometric means, such as fingerprint or facial recognition, when accessing sensitive information outside a trusted environment. The feature was initially introduced with Android 15 QPR1 for Pixel devices and is expected to be adopted by other manufacturers. It may not be enabled by default and will be compatible with devices equipped with class three biometric hardware.

Winsage

April 15, 2025

Don’t delete inetpub folder. It’s a Windows security fix

A new folder, typically located at C:inetpub, appears on Windows systems after installing the April Patch Tuesday updates for Windows 10 and 11. This folder is created as a security measure related to the vulnerability CVE-2025-21204, which could allow unauthorized access to system-level file management. Microsoft advises users to leave this folder untouched, as it is established with read-only SYSTEM-level access to prevent privilege escalation exploits. The folder will be created even if Internet Information Services (IIS) is not installed, and there are currently no known exploits for CVE-2025-21204. If the folder is deleted, it can be recreated by enabling IIS in the Windows features settings. Users can also manually create the folder with the appropriate permissions if desired.

AppWizard

February 26, 2025

All Android users placed on red alert and urged to follow 5 critical rules today

Experts from Malwarebytes have highlighted the increasing threat to Android users from cybercriminals who create counterfeit applications that mimic legitimate software like TikTok, Spotify, and WhatsApp. The ability to sideload apps exposes users to risks, as these rogue applications can trick users into providing sensitive information through fake login screens. Malwarebytes reported that over 5,200 apps were discovered last year that could compromise multifactor authentication (MFA) by intercepting text messages with verification codes or extracting information from device notifications. Recommendations for enhancing Android security include installing mobile security software, evaluating app reviews, downloading apps from trusted sources, using a password manager, and activating MFA on sensitive accounts.

Winsage

February 17, 2025

Microsoft ends its OEM support for several Intel generations of processors in Windows 24H2

Support for Microsoft Windows 10 will end in October 2025. Microsoft will phase out support for 8th, 9th, and 10th generation Intel processors for Windows 11 version 24H2, meaning new OEM devices will not ship with these processors. Users with existing PCs or laptops using these processors can still use Windows 11 and receive updates, although future updates may have limitations. Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0, which is present in the affected Intel generations. Only devices with Intel processors from the 12th generation and beyond, as well as AMD's 8000 series, will qualify for new OEM devices running Windows 11.

Winsage

February 6, 2025

How to Add Fingerprint Authentication to Your Windows 11 Computer

To set up fingerprint recognition on Windows 11, follow these steps: 1. Open the Windows 11 Settings app by pressing the Windows Key and typing “settings.” 2. Navigate to the Accounts menu from the sidebar. 3. Click on Sign-in options. 4. Select Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello) and click “Set up.” Enter your PIN or create one if you haven't already, then follow the prompts to register your fingerprint. If your fingerprint fails to work, you can revert to your PIN. Troubleshooting steps include restarting your computer, resetting your fingerprint data, adding an alternative fingerprint, or updating the fingerprint sensor drivers. Windows 11 also allows the use of facial recognition as an alternative to fingerprint authentication through Windows Hello. Benefits of using fingerprint sign-in include faster login, enhanced security due to the difficulty of replicating biometric data, and facilitating a transition to passwordless authentication systems.

Winsage

December 9, 2024

Zero-day Windows NTLM hash vulnerability gets patched by third-party —credentials can be hijacked by merely viewing a malicious file in File Explorer

In June 2023, Microsoft announced the deprecation of the NTLM authentication protocol and recommended transitioning to the Windows Negotiate protocol. Security firm 0Patch discovered a new vulnerability in NTLM that allows credential hijacking by merely viewing an infected folder. Patches for Windows 11 are expected soon, but older systems like Windows 7 remain vulnerable. Windows 10 is nearing its end-of-life phase in October 2024, and users may need a paid support plan for continued coverage. 0Patch has not reported any attacks exploiting this NTLM issue in the wild, and their micropatch addresses a specific vulnerable NTLM instruction. However, this patch is unofficial, and users should consider their risk tolerance before installation.