security threats Archives

Winsage

January 27, 2026

Modder Creates ISO Files for Windows 7 & Vista

Microsoft has ceased support for several older operating systems, discontinuing regular security updates, which raises concerns about user vulnerability to malware and security threats. Additionally, some users of Windows 11 have reported boot issues following the January update, and Microsoft is working to resolve this problem.

Tech Optimizer

January 27, 2026

Not a virus: What it means and why antivirus flags it

The term “not a virus” is used by antivirus software to indicate that a file does not match known malware signatures but still triggers a detection. This means the file is not automatically blocked or confirmed as a threat; the alert highlights something unusual, leaving the decision to the user. Alerts typically arise when software exhibits behavior associated with increased risk, despite lacking clear evidence of malicious intent. Malware is specifically designed to inflict harm, while files labeled “not a virus” may perform actions that raise security concerns but are not classified as harmful. Antivirus programs identify threats through signature detection and heuristic behavior-based detection. Legitimate programs, such as system utilities, download managers, and game cheats, can inadvertently trigger “not a virus” alerts. Common types of detections include adware, riskware, and potentially unwanted applications (PUA). The primary security risk of “not a virus” files is exposure rather than direct attacks, and privacy concerns often arise from data collection by these programs. If an antivirus detects “not a virus,” users should identify the file, review recent changes, compare detections, and decide whether to keep or remove it. To reduce unwanted alerts, users should download from official sources, use custom installation options, and remove unused software.

AppWizard

January 26, 2026

Google to Make Sideloading Android Apps a High-Friction Process

Google is enhancing the safety of Android users by complicating the process of sideloading applications to reduce security threats. This change aims to inform users about the dangers of installing unverified applications, as criminals often exploit sideloading through social engineering tactics. Last year, Google introduced new developer verification requirements and a revised installation flow to highlight these risks. The new process is designed to resist coercion, ensuring users are not misled into bypassing safety measures. Advanced users will still have the option to sideload apps but through a more challenging process. Additionally, a survey by Bitdefender indicates that while smartphones are commonly used for transactions, many users lack an understanding of their vulnerabilities, leading to increased risks from cybercriminals.

AppWizard

January 15, 2026

APKPure Strengthens Multi-Layer Security Framework to Enhance Protection for Android App Downloads

APKPure has enhanced its multi-layer security framework to improve user protection against security threats. Each app submitted undergoes a thorough human review process, including developer identity verification and compliance checks. APKPure distributes only original APK files signed by verified developers, matching signatures to official releases. The platform conducts regular scans using VirusTotal and collaborates with developers to ensure authorized app distribution. APKPure regularly audits listed apps and responds quickly to security alerts or DMCA reports. It offers two platforms: APKPure Official for a comprehensive experience and APKPure Lite for optimized downloads. Both platforms share the same verified app library and security measures, supporting over 200 regions and 23 languages.

Winsage

January 5, 2026

Windows Task Manager Creator Dave Plummer Calls for Halt to New Windows 11 AI Features for Better Stability

Dave Plummer, the creator of the Windows Task Manager and Pinball game, has expressed concerns about Windows 11, criticizing Microsoft's focus on integrating new artificial intelligence features at the expense of system stability. He argues that stable releases should prioritize fixing critical bugs over adding new functionalities. Plummer references the period around Windows XP Service Pack 2, when Microsoft halted new feature introductions to enhance security and stability in response to major security threats. He advocates for a similar approach for Windows 11, urging Microsoft to pause feature additions until the system is stabilized and existing issues are resolved. Plummer emphasizes the need for Microsoft to focus on improving user experience by prioritizing fixes over new features, particularly for power users.

AppWizard

December 23, 2025

My 18 favorite Android apps of 2025

Mishaal Rahman shared her favorite Android apps from 2025, which include: - Octopi Launcher: A launcher designed for foldable smartphones that allows users to create custom layouts for different screen orientations. - Nobook: A lightweight alternative to the official Facebook app, offering a simplified social media experience without ads. - Banana Browser: A browser that excels in video handling, featuring a built-in player and ad-blocking capabilities. - NotebookLM: A digital manual and note-taking app that helps users organize information effectively. - OSS Document Scanner: An open-source PDF scanner with automatic capture and OCR support. - whoBIRD: An app for identifying birds by their calls using real-time audio sampling. - Tomato: A minimalist Pomodoro timer that integrates focus and rest periods into productivity routines. - Stellarium: An app for exploring celestial bodies with detailed information about stars and planets. - Google Journal: A straightforward journaling app that stores entries locally and supports multimedia integration. - Next Player: A simple video player that supports various formats and offers organizational features. - Weather Master: A user-friendly weather app with customizable data sources and concise summaries. - Perplexity Comet: An AI browser that enhances news and information access. - LocalSend: A file-sharing app for quick and secure transfers across devices on the same network. - Super Display: An app that turns any Android device into a secondary monitor. - URLCheck: A link manager that scans for security threats and allows users to choose apps for opening links. - Samsung Food: A recipe management app that helps users curate digital cookbooks. - DeepSeek: An AI chatbot offering versatile capabilities and offline access. - Androidify: An app for creating personalized avatars and customizing devices with unique designs.

AppWizard

December 17, 2025

Google warns all Android users to delete ‘fake apps’ as urgent advice issued

Android users are warned about fraudulent VPN applications that pose significant security threats by installing malware on devices and compromising personal and banking information. These malicious apps mimic reputable VPNs and use enticing advertisements to lure users. Once installed, they can introduce various forms of malware, including trojans and remote access tools, leading to severe consequences such as unauthorized access to personal accounts and financial loss. Cybercriminals employ sophisticated tactics, including professional advertising and AI-generated content, to create an illusion of legitimacy. Google advises users to download VPN services only from trusted sources, look for the verified VPN badge on the Google Play Store, and be cautious of free VPN services that may collect excessive data or contain malware.

Winsage

December 15, 2025

Still running Windows 10? Here’s why that’s a bad idea

Hundreds of millions of computers are still using Windows 10, despite it reaching its end-of-support deadline. An Extended Security Updates (ESU) subscription is available for free until October 2026, providing updates to help protect against security threats. By early 2021, around 100 million PCs were still running Windows 7, which had ceased receiving updates in January 2020, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks from groups like Digital Shadows, LockBit, Conti, and Vice Society. Notable incidents include the PrintNightmare flaw in July 2021, which led Microsoft to issue a patch for Windows 7, and the WannaCry attack in 2017, which targeted Windows XP machines. Microsoft releases monthly security fixes, and vulnerabilities like CVE-2025-62215, identified in November 2025, have been categorized as "Exploitation Detected." While current vulnerabilities require local access, history suggests that remote attacks may soon occur, posing severe risks to unpatched systems.

Winsage

December 8, 2025

Windows Autopatch Adds CVE Reporting to Boost Security Visibility

Microsoft has introduced a Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) reporting capability within Windows Autopatch to improve security for IT teams. This tool provides an overview of Windows vulnerabilities addressed in recent updates, enabling device-specific tracking. Key features of the CVE report include a list of CVEs addressed in the past 90 days, tracking of patch compliance at the device level, links to Knowledge Base articles, filtering options, and near real-time updates. Administrators can access the CVEs report by navigating to the Microsoft Intune admin center and selecting the appropriate reports. The report includes CVE identifiers, severity scores, exploitation status, and details on devices needing updates. Organizations can enhance their response to vulnerabilities by utilizing various strategies, such as the Windows Autopatch update readiness feature and targeted fixes with the Security Copilot Vulnerability Remediation Agent.

AppWizard

December 5, 2025

After WhatsApp and Apple FaceTime, Russia bans Snapchat; government says: App being used to… – The Times of India

Russia's state internet regulator, Roskomnadzor, has blocked Snapchat and imposed restrictions on Apple's FaceTime, accusing both platforms of facilitating terrorist activities and criminal operations. The agency stated that these apps were used to organize terrorist activities, recruit individuals, and commit fraud against citizens. Snapchat has been unavailable in Russia since October 10. This action is part of Russia's broader strategy to restrict digital communications, having already blocked major Western platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X, along with messaging services such as Signal and Viber. Telegram's voice and video calls are also facing limitations. The Kremlin is promoting MAX, a state-controlled app that combines messaging, government services, and payments, which is mandatory on new mobile devices. WhatsApp has received warnings of a potential ban if Meta does not comply with law enforcement requests. Additionally, virtual private network services are increasingly being blocked by Russian authorities.