service providers Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 18, 2025

DataStrike Expands Open-Source Database Management Business by 600% as Demand for PostgreSQL Expertise Surges

DataStrike has reported a 600% increase in its open-source database management business over six months, largely due to the growing adoption of PostgreSQL. In response, the company has doubled its team of database management professionals, focusing on recruiting PostgreSQL-certified experts. PostgreSQL has surpassed MySQL as the most utilized database among professional developers, with 49% of developers reporting extensive experience with it. Additionally, 51% of organizations have seen increased PostgreSQL usage in the past year. DataStrike offers 24/7 U.S.-based support for various database platforms and has found that 54% of IT leaders feel they lack the resources for data infrastructure management. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, DataStrike serves over 200 clients across North America.

AppWizard

June 6, 2025

Natwest is down? Users report issues with banking app and mobile login

Reports of issues with the NatWest app emerged on DownDetector around 8:45 AM today, with many users experiencing problems primarily related to mobile banking and login functionalities. Customers reported their frustrations on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting difficulties accessing their accounts. The NatWest Help account acknowledged a technical issue affecting the app and stated that their team was addressing the situation urgently.

AppWizard

May 30, 2025

Vietnam to block messaging app Telegram over ‘anti-state’ contents

The Vietnamese government has instructed telecommunications companies to block the Telegram messaging app, citing security concerns and the dissemination of "anti-state" content. This directive was issued by the Telecommunications Department and requires service providers to report compliance by June 2. A document from the Ministry of Public Security indicated that 68% of approximately 9,600 Telegram channels and groups in Vietnam were classified as “bad and toxic,” involved in activities such as anti-state messaging, fraud, and drug trafficking. The government referenced Article 9 of the Telecommunications Law and Decree 147 to justify the ban, claiming Telegram had not complied with regulations. Despite the ban, Telegram remained accessible in Vietnam as of the report date. Telegram expressed surprise at the government's actions and confirmed it is responding to legal requests from Vietnam.

Tech Optimizer

May 29, 2025

Sophos warns MSPs over DragonForce threat

Sophos has warned managed service providers (MSPs) about their vulnerability to ransomware attacks targeting remote monitoring and management (RMM) tools. They reported a ransomware incident involving DragonForce, where attackers accessed the SimpleHelp RMM to deploy ransomware across multiple endpoints and exfiltrate sensitive data using a double extortion strategy. An alert was triggered by a suspicious SimpleHelp installer file pushed through the MSP's legitimate RMM instance. MSPs utilizing Sophos's managed detection and response (MDR) services successfully prevented hacker access, while those without security investments were impacted by the ransomware and data exfiltration. Following the incident, the affected MSP sought help from Sophos Rapid Response for digital forensics. Mark Appleton from Also Cloud UK stressed the importance of MSPs investing in advanced exposure management tools to mitigate cyber threats, noting that endpoints are primary targets for breaches. He highlighted the significance of continuous threat exposure management as essential for MSPs to protect themselves and their clients from attacks.

AppWizard

May 26, 2025

Vietnam acts to block messaging app Telegram, government document seen by Reuters shows

Vietnam's technology ministry has instructed telecommunications providers to block the messaging app Telegram due to its lack of cooperation in addressing criminal activities by its users. A government document revealed that 68 percent of the 9,600 Telegram channels and groups in Vietnam violate local laws, involving serious offenses such as fraud, drug trafficking, and potential terrorism links. Service providers must implement blocking measures and report progress to the ministry by June 2.

AppWizard

May 24, 2025

Vietnam acts to block messaging app Telegram

Vietnam's technology ministry has instructed telecommunication service providers to block the messaging app Telegram due to its lack of cooperation in combating criminal activities among users. This directive, issued on May 21, mandates that service providers implement the block and report their actions by June 2. Findings from the cyber-security department indicated that 68% of the 9,600 Telegram channels and groups in Vietnam were violating laws, including serious offenses like fraud, drug trafficking, and suspected terrorism activities. A representative from the ministry confirmed the document's authenticity, citing Telegram's failure to provide user data during criminal investigations. As of the latest update, Telegram remained accessible in Vietnam despite the directive.

AppWizard

May 24, 2025

Vietnam orders ban on popular messaging app Telegram

Vietnam's Ministry of Science and Technology has accused the messaging app Telegram of not cooperating in addressing criminal activities conducted by its users. The ministry has instructed internet service providers to restrict Telegram's operations in the country, citing that nearly 70 percent of the 9,600 channels on the app disseminate harmful information and engage in illegal activities such as selling user data and drug trafficking. A Telegram representative stated the company has been timely in addressing legal requests from Vietnam and is processing a recent request. Despite the government's actions, Telegram was still accessible in Vietnam as of Friday. In Vietnam, approximately 11.8 million users use Telegram, while the app has nearly one billion users globally.

Tech Optimizer

May 24, 2025

Arms Cyber Expands Ransomware Protection to macOS Devices

Apple devices, previously considered largely immune to cyber threats, are experiencing a rise in ransomware attacks targeting macOS, as reported by cybersecurity firm Black Fog. This shift is attributed to the increasing popularity of Apple devices and evolving ransomware tactics. Notable ransomware incidents include EvilQuest and MacRansom, with new threats like NotLockBit and FrigidStealer emerging. In response, Arms Cyber has begun offering ransomware protection for macOS, becoming the first firm to provide comprehensive protection across Windows, Linux, and macOS. Their solutions include real-time file entropy analysis, Steal Archival technology for rapid recovery, and Automated Moving Target Defense (AMTD) to thwart attacks. The growing use of Mac devices in critical sectors highlights the need for enhanced security measures, as attackers see opportunities in less protected systems. Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) are also being equipped with these protections to strengthen defenses against ransomware.

AppWizard

May 24, 2025

Vietnam orders messaging app Telegram to be blocked

Vietnam's technology ministry has mandated telecommunication service providers to block the messaging application Telegram due to its alleged non-cooperation in addressing criminal activities associated with its users. This directive, dated May 21, requires telecom companies to restrict access to Telegram and report their actions to the ministry by June 2. A report from the police indicated that 68% of the 9,600 Telegram channels and groups in Vietnam are violating local laws, including fraud and drug trafficking. The ministry highlighted the need for providers to implement measures to prevent Telegram's activities in the country. Telegram has faced scrutiny for not complying with requests for user data during criminal investigations, and the Vietnamese government has previously urged other companies like Facebook and YouTube to help eliminate content deemed "toxic."

Winsage

May 7, 2025

Introducing all-new Surface Copilot+ PCs: The Surface Pro, 12-inch and Surface Laptop, 13-inch

Copilot+ PCs are a new category of personal computing devices designed to enhance AI experiences and productivity. Microsoft has introduced the Surface Laptop (13-inch) and Surface Pro (12-inch) as part of this lineup, both featuring Snapdragon X Plus processors with Neural Processing Units (NPU). The Surface Laptop, available from May 20, 2025, starts at 9, is the thinnest and lightest model yet, and offers up to 23 hours of video playback. It has a full HD touchscreen, AI-enhanced camera, and a keyboard with a fingerprint reader. The Surface Pro, also powered by the Snapdragon X Plus, weighs 1.5 pounds and features a detachable keyboard and adjustable kickstand. Both devices incorporate sustainable materials, with the Surface Laptop using 100% recycled cobalt in its battery and the Surface Pro made from 82.9% recycled content. They provide access to AI tools for productivity, including features like Recall and Click to Do. Pre-orders for both devices are available, with the Surface Pro starting at 9 and the Surface Laptop at ,199.