technical support Archives

Winsage

May 31, 2025

Forget Windows 11, this version of Windows 10 is officially supported until 2032

Microsoft will retire Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, after which it will no longer receive technical support, feature updates, or security patches. Users can upgrade to Windows 11, but not all devices meet its requirements. Microsoft offers an Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for an additional year of security support for a fee. Another option is the Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC edition, which provides a streamlined experience but is not intended for general consumer use and comes with complex licensing requirements. Windows 10 LTSC will receive official support for several years, but as mainstream Windows 10 approaches its end-of-support date, software and driver support may decline. Users with older hardware may consider acquiring a Windows 10 LTSC key to extend device functionality, but should weigh the associated challenges.

Winsage

May 28, 2025

All Windows users must ‘watch out’ and delete ‘Microsoft’ updates now

Windows 10 and Windows 11 users are experiencing a rise in phishing emails that appear to be from Microsoft, according to Action Fraud, the UK's national fraud and cybercrime reporting center. Over 250 users have reported receiving fraudulent messages claiming their devices are infected with malware, often encouraging them to click on malicious links. These emails may look credible, sometimes using legitimate Microsoft addresses. Action Fraud advises users to verify messages directly with organizations using official contact details and warns that legitimate institutions will never request personal information via email. Microsoft also states it does not send unsolicited emails or calls for personal information and recommends downloading software only from official sources.

Winsage

May 27, 2025

Time to upgrade to a new PC or laptop? Murcia company’s advice ahead of Windows 10 end of support

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, ceasing security updates and technical support, which raises concerns about vulnerabilities to cyber threats. Users are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 11, but with Windows 12 expected later this year, many may need to consider new hardware due to compatibility challenges. Fixtech, a tech repair shop in Murcia, offers services to assist users in selecting new PCs or laptops, installing Windows, setting up devices, and transferring data. They advise customers to check if their current computers qualify for an upgrade to Windows 11 before purchasing new hardware. Fixtech provides various services, including computer repairs, custom-built systems, and data recovery, and is available 24/7.

Winsage

May 27, 2025

Computers running on Microsoft’s Windows 10 must be updated

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, meaning devices will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or technical support, which could lead to security vulnerabilities. At Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), many computers can be upgraded to Windows 11 without disruption, and the upgrade process is being managed by University Technology ([U]Tech). Some devices may need assessment for compatibility, and [U]Tech will contact those affected. Early planning is important to avoid disruptions, ensure budget allocation, and maintain security. Users should contact [U]Tech if they have not been reached by June 30 and provide their device information. Assistance is available through various channels, including a support form and the [U]Tech C.A.R.E. Center.

Winsage

May 15, 2025

Microsoft App Assure helps Nord Security build for Windows on Arm

Developers are focusing on optimizing applications for the newly launched Copilot+ PCs, which feature advanced system architecture, all-day battery life, and the ability to run AI models directly on the device. The initial Copilot+ PCs are powered by Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus silicon, with AMD and Intel also introducing compatible processors. Microsoft’s App Assure Program provides guidance and technical support to help developers optimize applications for these devices, particularly for Arm-based Snapdragon X Series devices. NordVPN is a notable example of a company that successfully utilized the App Assure program to develop an Arm-optimized version of their application. The program includes the Arm Advisory Service, which allows developers to consult with Microsoft engineers for a smoother development process. Other companies, such as Proton VPN and F-Secure, have also benefited from the App Assure team in optimizing their applications for the Windows on Arm platform.

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

Google announces new security features for Android for protection against scam and theft

Google unveiled new security and privacy features for its Android platform, focusing on safeguarding calls, screen sharing, messages, device access, and system-level permissions. Key measures include blocking unsafe actions during calls with unknown contacts, restrictions on side-loading apps from unverified sources, and limiting accessibility permissions to prevent scams. Users on Android 6 or later will not be able to disable Google Play Protect, which scans for harmful applications. Enhanced screen-sharing protection includes reminders to stop sharing after calls and a warning screen for banking apps when sharing with unknown numbers. Google Messages will improve scam detection using on-device AI for various fraud types. Verification keys in the Google Contacts app will allow users to authenticate contacts, with end-to-end encryption for verified conversations. Identity Check protection requiring biometric authentication will be extended to more devices, and stricter controls on Factory Reset functions will be implemented. Google is also enhancing its Play Protect program to detect unsafe apps and strengthening Advanced Protection Mode for public figures, along with introducing a new Find My Hub feature.

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

Your Android phone is getting a huge security upgrade for free

Google has introduced a suite of security tools for Android users to protect against various threats, including: 1. Protection against Scam Calls: Alerts users to potential scam calls and blocks harmful actions, focusing on disabling Google Play Protect, preventing sideloading of unverified apps, and restricting accessibility permissions. 2. In-call Protections for Banking Apps: A feature that warns users when they open banking apps while sharing their screen with unknown callers, starting in the UK, and automatically enabled for participating banks on devices running Android 11 or higher. 3. Improved Scam Detection in Google Messages: Enhanced scam detection capabilities that now cover a wider range of scams, including toll road, cryptocurrency, financial impersonation, gift card, and technical support scams. 4. Better Encryption for Text Messages via Key Verifier: A tool that allows users to confirm contacts' identities through public encryption keys, enhancing privacy and security. 5. Stronger Mobile Phone Theft Protection: Expanded theft protection features, including the Identity Check tool, restrictions on unauthorized factory resets, and obscured one-time passwords on the lock screen. 6. Advanced Protection for Mobile Devices: An Advanced Protection Program offering cryptographic verification for all login operations, available on devices running Android 16. 7. Improvements to Google Play Protect: Upgrades to identify malicious apps before installation and live threat detection to alert users of suspicious app behavior. 8. Enhancing Overall Android Security: Ongoing commitment to improve Android security through regular updates and new tools to protect users from evolving cyber threats.

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

Google talks smarter security against fraud and theft in The Android Show

Google has announced updates to enhance security and privacy for Android users, including: - Enhanced scam protection for calls and text messages. - Updated Factory Reset protections limiting phone functionality if reset without owner consent. - Upgraded Live Threat Detection in Google Play Services to identify malicious applications. - Introduction of the Key Verifier feature for verifying identities in conversations using public encryption keys, launching this summer for Android 10 and higher. - Expansion of the Identity Check feature to more devices with the upcoming Android 16 release. - Concealment of one-time passwords on the lock screen in Android 16. - Extension of the Advanced Protection program to a broader audience. - Rollout of live threat detection capabilities in Google Play Protect for Pixel 6 and newer devices and other smartphones. - Announcement of Google I/O 2025 scheduled for May 20 at 10 am PT (1 pm ET).

Winsage

May 12, 2025

Microsoft loosens the noose on Windows 10 users with new end-of-support timeline

The official end of Windows 10 is set for October 14, 2025, after which users will no longer receive technical support, new features, or security patches. Windows 10's global desktop market share has decreased from nearly 70% to approximately 53% over the past year, indicating a shift towards Windows 11. Microsoft 365 apps, including Teams, Outlook, Word, Excel, and OneDrive, will continue to receive security updates on Windows 10 until October 2028. The Extended Security Updates (ESU) program offers optional, paid security patches for Windows 10 after its end of support. Users may face significant hardware costs when upgrading to Windows 11, and alternatives like macOS or Linux are also options to consider.

Winsage

May 4, 2025

Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro before this deadline for $15 (Reg. $199)

Windows 11 is available for an upgrade price of .97, as Windows 10 approaches its end-of-support deadline in fall 2025. The upgrade includes features such as Microsoft Copilot, an intuitive user interface, enhanced security measures including biometric login, and built-in parental controls. Microsoft will cease technical support for Windows 10 after the deadline, making the upgrade to Windows 11 essential.