security patches Archives

Winsage

August 24, 2025

LibreOffice 25.8 Drops Windows 7-8.1 Support, Adds Speed and AES-256 Encryption

LibreOffice 25.8 has been released by The Document Foundation, ending support for Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, meaning users on these operating systems will no longer receive updates or security patches. The new version requires a minimum of Windows 10 and includes performance enhancements, such as faster document loading and improved interoperability with Microsoft formats. Security upgrades include AES-256 encryption and PDF 2.0 export capabilities. The decision to discontinue support for older Windows versions reflects a broader industry trend towards modernization and innovation. Future versions will also require macOS 11 or later. Users on outdated systems are encouraged to evaluate alternatives or stick with earlier versions.

Winsage

August 23, 2025

Microsoft’s Windows 10 support extension – lifeline or stay of execution?

Microsoft has extended security updates for Windows 10, allowing businesses more time to plan and manage migration without immediate disruptions. This extension helps IT teams mitigate short-term risks but may lead to complacency and delays in necessary upgrades. Organizations risk accumulating technical debt, becoming dependent on costly external partners, and missing out on innovations if they postpone migration. Maintaining outdated infrastructure can become more expensive than upgrading, and reliance on unsupported systems increases the risk of vendor lock-in. Continuous modernization is essential, and businesses should adopt strategies for migrating unsupported applications while ensuring operational continuity. The extension should be seen as a temporary measure rather than a permanent solution, emphasizing the need for ongoing modernization efforts.

Winsage

August 21, 2025

Windows 10 Support Ends Soon. Here Are Your Best Options if You Can’t Upgrade

Microsoft will end official support for Windows 10 on October 14, meaning users will no longer receive bug fixes, technical support, or security updates. Extended security updates (ESU) will be available for a fee, primarily aimed at businesses and educational institutions, with a consumer version available for one year. Users can also consider alternative operating systems like Linux or ChromeOS Flex. Microsoft suggests cloud solutions like Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop for those unable to upgrade their devices. Some users are opting for third-party security software, such as the 0patch agent, to address security risks associated with using Windows 10 post-support. There are methods to bypass Windows 11 upgrade compatibility checks using tools like Rufus or Registry Editor modifications.

AppWizard

August 21, 2025

Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1: What’s new after the Pixel 10 launch event?

Google has released Android 16 QPR2 Beta 1 following the Pixel 10 series launch, aimed at developers. The update includes an expanded dark theme, auto-themed icons, and developer-focused APIs. The beta will run until Q4 2025, with QPR1 launching next month featuring Material 3 updates. The beta is available for compatible Pixel devices enrolled in the previous Android 16 beta, and new users can join via google.com/android/beta. The build number for the beta is BP41.250725.006, which includes the August security patch. Users must opt out of the beta program to transition to the stable Android 16 QPR1 update next month, which will introduce Material 3 design and additional features.

Winsage

August 20, 2025

Microsoft confirms when final ever update is coming to your Windows 10 PC — what you need to do next

Microsoft will stop providing security updates for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. The final monthly security update will be released on that date, coinciding with the end of support for Windows 10, version 22H2. Users will no longer receive security patches, bug fixes, or feature updates after this date. Approximately 42.99% of all PCs currently run Windows 10, which translates to millions of unsupported devices. Users have several options: upgrade to Windows 11 for free if their device meets the requirements, purchase a new PC with Windows 11, pay for an Extended Security Update (ESU) subscription for additional security updates, utilize OneDrive for free additional security updates, or switch to a different operating system like Linux or ChromeOS.

Winsage

August 19, 2025

I was about to upgrade to Windows 11, but I’ve decided to stick with Windows 10

The upgrade to Windows 11 has been delayed primarily due to the announcement of a free option for Extended Security Updates (ESU) for Windows 10, allowing users to receive support until October 2026 without incurring costs. The requirement to sync settings with OneDrive is seen as a minor inconvenience. Additionally, there are concerns about the performance of Windows 11, with reports of issues such as sluggishness and bugs affecting stability, including a glitch in the recent 24H2 update that could disrupt SSD functionality. The familiarity and reliability of Windows 10 further contribute to the decision to remain on that operating system for now.

Winsage

August 18, 2025

Microsoft Store disables opting out of automatic app updates

Microsoft has changed its approach to automatic updates for apps in the Microsoft Store, limiting users to a maximum delay of five weeks for updates. After this period, updates will be installed automatically, regardless of user preference. This change raises concerns about the balance between security and user control, as mandatory updates aim to enhance security and stability but may also lead to risks associated with automatic installations. Users may prefer to postpone updates due to potential dissatisfaction with changes in app functionality.

AppWizard

August 18, 2025

Amazon Appstore Shutdown: Android Users Must Delete Apps Within 48 Hours

Effective August 20, 2025, the Amazon Appstore will cease to support Android devices, ending over fifteen years of service. Users are advised to uninstall all apps downloaded via the Amazon Appstore to mitigate security risks, as these apps will no longer receive updates or security patches. Users should transition to alternatives in the Google Play Store, which offers built-in security features. Additionally, Amazon Coins will also be discontinued on the same date, with unclear details on refunds for remaining balances. Cybersecurity experts emphasize the urgency of this transition to avoid potential threats from outdated applications.

Tech Optimizer

August 18, 2025

Critical PostgreSQL Vulnerabilities Allow Arbitrary Code Execution During Backup Restoration

The PostgreSQL Global Development Group has released security and maintenance updates for versions 17.6, 16.10, 15.14, 14.19, 13.22, and the third beta of PostgreSQL 18. The updates address three critical vulnerabilities: 1. CVE-2025-8714 (CVSS 8.8) - Allows code injection during dump restoration via pg_dump operations. 2. CVE-2025-8715 (CVSS 8.8) - Enables SQL injection through newline injection in object names during pg_dump. 3. CVE-2025-8713 (CVSS 3.1) - Exposes optimizer statistics data. The update also improves BRIN index performance, logical replication, and resolves WAL segment removal issues. PostgreSQL 13 will reach end-of-life on November 13, 2025. The third beta of PostgreSQL 18 is in development, with general availability expected in September-October 2025. Administrators should perform reindexing after the upgrade if using specific BRIN indexes.

Winsage

August 14, 2025

Still Running Windows 10 and Can’t Upgrade? Here Are Your Top Options

Beginning October 14, Microsoft will stop broad support for Windows 10, meaning users will lose access to free updates, bug fixes, and technical assistance. Users are encouraged to transition to Windows 11, though not all devices may support it. Microsoft will offer a paid Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10, allowing users to access critical security updates for a fee. Alternatives to Windows include various Linux distributions and Google ChromeOS Flex. Users can also consider cloud solutions like Windows 365 or Azure Virtual Desktop for access to Windows 11. Some users are opting for third-party security software to mitigate risks associated with using Windows 10 after the support deadline. There are methods to bypass the Windows 11 upgrade compatibility checker, allowing installation on unsupported devices.