Security Archives

Winsage

September 10, 2026

Microsoft fixes bug that wiped Windows desktop settings

Microsoft announced that the September 2026 Patch Tuesday updates resolved an issue affecting desktop settings on certain Windows devices, which caused desktop wallpapers to revert to a solid black background after the installation of the KB5120998 August 2026 preview update. This bug impacted Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 systems, preventing the correct loading of desktop settings and also affecting mouse settings. Microsoft recommended users update their devices to the latest security update released on September 8, 2026 (KB5124008) to benefit from the fix.

Tech Optimizer

September 10, 2026

8 Antivirus (Endpoint Protection) Software for Business: Our Top Picks by Use Case (2026)

If you hold Microsoft 365 E5, you have access to Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, which provides enterprise-grade endpoint protection at no additional cost. For organizations without a dedicated security specialist, Sophos is recommended for its user-friendly platform. CrowdStrike is suggested for those with a mature Security Operations Center (SOC) and sufficient budget. Other options include SentinelOne for mid-sized organizations needing automation, ESET for older hardware and virtual desktops, Avast Business for very small businesses, VIPRE for budget-conscious mixed estates, and Expel for tool-agnostic managed detection and response. Antivirus and EDR are now unified under a single agent, and organizations should inquire about update staging processes to avoid issues like those experienced in July 2024 with a major vendor's faulty content update. Independent tests from organizations like AV-Comparatives and AV-TEST are crucial for evaluating protection rates and false positives. Linux servers require attention as they are often targeted by ransomware. When deploying endpoint protection, avoid running two real-time agents simultaneously, activate prevention features promptly, and test deployments on critical applications first. Organizations should confirm their Microsoft licensing covers necessary features and ensure there is a plan for responding to alerts. Common pitfalls include neglecting identity management and failing to test response workflows before incidents occur.

Tech Optimizer

September 10, 2026

8 Antivirus Software for Mac: Our Top Picks by Use Case (2026)

Apple provides built-in security features for macOS, including XProtect, Gatekeeper, and automatic malware removal, which contribute to the safety of Macs. However, these protections do not effectively address threats like infostealers, phishing, and adware. For enhanced security, third-party antivirus solutions are recommended. Bitdefender is noted for its strong detection rates and minimal system impact, making it suitable for most users. Intego specializes in Mac-specific threats and is ideal for users focused solely on Apple products. ESET and Trend Micro are recommended for businesses needing centralized management. F-Secure is recognized for its privacy-focused approach, while Norton offers a comprehensive suite of security features. AVG provides free real-time protection suitable for low-risk personal use, but may not be adequate for business needs. CleanMyMac is a maintenance tool rather than a traditional antivirus, focusing on system cleanup and optimization. Users should avoid running multiple real-time scanners simultaneously and ensure they purchase appropriate licenses for business use. It's important to evaluate the necessity of additional features and consider long-term pricing when selecting antivirus software.

AppWizard

September 10, 2026

Fix: Embark Game Boot Fatal Error (Detected Software) ARC Raiders

ARC Raiders players may face issues launching the game due to the Embark Game Boot halting unexpectedly because of a fatal error. Two main error messages can occur: "Detected Software," indicating that the anti-cheat system has identified a disallowed process, and "Failed to install EasyAntiCheat," which suggests that the EAC service or driver could not be initialized. The first error can be triggered by an AutoHotkey-based utility, while the second may arise from a locked EAC file, another anti-cheat process, or an incomplete installation of the service. If players reach the menu but experience crashes, they should consult the ARC Raiders crashing and freezing guide for troubleshooting steps related to the Embark Game Boot or Easy Anti-Cheat. Specific error messages and their solutions include: - "Detected Software or Cheat Software Detected": Close the named process. - "Failed to install EasyAntiCheat or EAC is not installed": Run EAC uninstall and install scripts. - "Error 30005 or CreateFile failed with 32": Restart Windows to unlock the EAC file. - "Maximum simultaneous game instances reached": Close other games and anti-cheat processes. - "An ARAV code names AutoHotkey, an auto-clicker, Cheat Engine, a VM, or another tool": Stop the named program. - "An ARAV code ending in 005, 006, or 007": Verify the game installation in Steam. To resolve issues: 1. Check and close the program named by Embark Game Boot. 2. Repair Easy Anti-Cheat from the ARC Raiders Installer Folder. 3. Verify the ARC Raiders installation in Steam. 4. Reinstall ARC Raiders if previous steps fail, and provide detailed error information to Embark Support if issues persist. Players should ensure that any flagged processes are closed before attempting to launch the game or reinstall it.

Winsage

September 10, 2026

Windows 11’s last Secure Boot deadline is weeks away, here’s what you must do

Microsoft is continuing the rollout of Secure Boot certificate updates, with the next significant deadline on October 19, 2026, when the Microsoft Windows Production PCA 2011 certificate expires. The September 2026 Patch Tuesday update has expanded eligibility for Secure Boot certificates to more PCs classified as “high confidence.” Users may need to reboot their PCs to install these updates, and some may require firmware updates beforehand. Microsoft has confirmed that the update process will persist beyond established deadlines, and older certificates are expiring in stages, with the first two deadlines having already passed. Users should ensure they have the latest updates installed and check their Secure Boot status in Windows Security. Microsoft has assured that PCs without the newer certificates will continue to boot normally and receive standard updates while the rollout continues.

Winsage

September 10, 2026

Microsoft patches 966 vulnerabilities: Two Windows zero-days actively exploited

On September 8, 2026, Microsoft released 966 security updates, the largest Patch Tuesday to date, addressing various vulnerabilities. Among these, 105 were classified as critical, including two zero-day vulnerabilities: CVE-2026-81963 and CVE-2026-85880. Both allow authorized local attackers to escalate privileges to SYSTEM level. CVE-2026-81963 is related to the Windows Update Stack, while CVE-2026-85880 involves a heap-based buffer overflow in the Windows Advanced Local Procedure Call (ALPC). The updates included 438 vulnerabilities related to privilege escalation, 258 concerning remote code execution, and 173 involving information disclosures. Users are advised to prioritize the installation of these updates due to the potential exploitation of the two critical vulnerabilities.

BetaBeacon

September 10, 2026

APK ios Android mobile adaptation

- Book of Ra offers authentic Egyptian slot action with high-variance gameplay. - Players can guess the color of the second playing card up to 5 times in a row. - New icons in the game include a Pharaoh, Cleopatra, a Scarab, an archaeologist, and the Golden Book of Ra. - The game has a simple bonus game where winnings can be wagered up to 5 times. - The top payout is 500 times the bet in the base game. - Book of Ra has a classic 5x3 layout with 10 paylines. - The game has a Gamble Feature where players can double their winnings. - The bonus round can result in wins up to 5,100,000 times the original stake. - The game has a Scatter symbol, a Wild symbol, and a Bonus symbol. - The game has a high RTP value of 92.13%.

Winsage

September 10, 2026

CVE-2026-85880 and CVE-2026-81963: Microsoft Patches Two Actively Exploited Windows Zero-Days

Microsoft's Patch Tuesday on September 8, 2026, addressed two critical Windows privilege escalation vulnerabilities: CVE-2026-85880 and CVE-2026-81963, both with a CVSS score of 7.8. CVE-2026-85880 is a heap-based buffer overflow in the Windows Advanced Local Procedure Call (ALPC), allowing attackers with low-privilege local access to escalate privileges to SYSTEM. CVE-2026-81963 involves improper link resolution in the Windows Update Stack, enabling similar privilege escalation. Both vulnerabilities require no user interaction and have been actively exploited prior to the patch release. CISA added them to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on September 8, 2026, with a remediation deadline of September 22 for U.S. federal agencies. CVE-2026-85880 affects various Windows 10 and Server versions but excludes Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025. CVE-2026-81963 impacts newer Windows platforms, including Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025. Microsoft released security updates for both vulnerabilities on September 8, 2026, and organizations are advised to prioritize these updates. Security teams should monitor for signs of privilege escalation and unusual SYSTEM-level activities related to these vulnerabilities.

AppWizard

September 10, 2026

Android Google Play System Update Rolling Out for September 2026 (September 9, 2026)

On September 9, 2026, Google rolled out the “Google Play System Update” for Android devices, which is part of the monthly “Google System Updates” aimed at enhancing security and reliability. The update reflects an “Update date: September 1, 2026,” and includes improvements to the app version of “Mainline services,” updated to version v2026-09-01S+. Users can check for the update in device settings under [Security & privacy] → [System & updates] → [Google Play system update], or through the “Mainline services” app, available since November 19, 2025.

Tech Optimizer

September 10, 2026

The 12 Best Antivirus Software for Mac, Compared and Priced

Bitdefender is recognized for its strong detection capabilities, mid-range pricing, and minimal system impact. Malwarebytes offers a free scanner for cleaning infected Macs, while Intego specializes in macOS with features tailored for Apple users. Norton provides a comprehensive security package with VPN, backup, and identity monitoring features. Gen Digital owns Norton, Avast, AVG, and Avira, indicating that these brands share threat intelligence and engineering resources. The 2026 Mac Antivirus Scorecard ranks Bitdefender highest with a score of 8.8, followed by Intego (8.2), Malwarebytes (8.3), ESET (8.3), and Norton (7.4). Pricing structures often include discounted first-year rates that can double upon renewal. Free options include Avast and Avira with real-time protection, while Malwarebytes offers a free on-demand scanner. Multi-device licensing can provide better value, and business Macs should use business licenses for essential features. macOS has built-in protections like XProtect and Gatekeeper, but third-party antivirus solutions can enhance security against newer threats.