technique Archives

Tech Optimizer

June 4, 2026

How We Test Antivirus and Security Software

Most software applications clearly indicate their functionality, but the effectiveness of antivirus utilities is often less tangible. PCMag rigorously evaluates antivirus products through comprehensive tests that validate their claims, including real-world malware samples and various protective measures. Each antivirus tool is assessed based on its on-demand scanner and real-time monitor capabilities. PCMag compiles fresh malware samples annually, analyzing them to ensure they are suitable for testing. The testing process includes evaluating malware-blocking capabilities and web-level protection against known malware-hosting sites. Phishing site detection is also tested using recent URLs, and antispam testing has been simplified due to the effectiveness of email providers. Performance impact tests have been discontinued as modern security suites show improved efficiency. Firewall protection is evaluated through program control, exploit defenses, and overall resilience against malware. Parental control features are tested for effectiveness in content filtering and monitoring. Ransomware protection is assessed by releasing real-world samples in a controlled environment. PCMag monitors independent antivirus lab tests from various organizations, including AV-Test, AV-Comparatives, SE Labs, MRG-Effitas, and AVLab, to inform their reviews. An aggregate testing score is calculated to summarize lab results. Testing methodologies do not include VPN evaluations, which are covered separately.

AppWizard

June 3, 2026

Fake ‘Minecraft’ Mods Bring Malware to as Many as 116,000 Players

The "Minecraft" community is facing a cybersecurity threat from a malware operation called WeedHack, which disguises itself as fake mods to lure players into downloading it. This operation, run by a teenager, has affected over 116,000 players and uses social engineering tactics to distribute malicious mods, cheats, and clients. WeedHack spreads through trusted channels, including YouTube, and employs search engine optimization poisoning to mislead users. The malware operates by disseminating malicious Java Archive files that appear legitimate, compromising devices to extract sensitive information such as session IDs, browser cookies, and cryptocurrency wallet data. It can also steal credentials for applications like Discord, Steam, and Telegram, and includes remote control features for surveillance and keylogging. Approximately 2,000 new infections occur daily, primarily affecting users in the United States, Germany, India, the United Kingdom, and Italy. The low cost of access to this malware has led to its use by teenagers for online bullying and harassment.

AppWizard

June 3, 2026

KRVR Supports Apple Vision Pro’s Foveated Streaming For SteamVR Games

KRVR is a visionOS application that allows users to play SteamVR games on the Apple Vision Pro using foveated streaming technology. It is a closed-source app that combines features from free, open-source alternatives like ALVR and Clear XR. KRVR supports a wide range of SteamVR titles, including those not using OpenXR, and integrates Nvidia's CloudXR SDK for enhanced visual fidelity. The app includes features such as passthrough cutouts for physical space integration and PC desktop access for multitasking during gameplay. It is compatible with Sony's PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers and other input devices but requires Nvidia's Ada or Blackwell GPU architectures, limiting support to RTX 40-series and 50-series graphics cards. KRVR is available for download on the App Store, with a Windows PC server application on GitHub.

Winsage

June 2, 2026

PHANTOMPULSE RAT Uses UAC Bypass to Hijack Windows Systems

PHANTOMPULSE is a remote access trojan (RAT) used as a final payload in multi-stage attacks targeting Windows environments. It employs advanced post-exploitation techniques, including process injection, User Account Control (UAC) bypass, and a decentralized blockchain-based command-and-control (C2) mechanism. The malware utilizes three process injection techniques: module stomping, manual DLL mapping, and debug-driven execution. It avoids detection by using direct system calls instead of standard Windows APIs and incorporates a hardware breakpoint mechanism to disable security protections like AMSI and ETW. PHANTOMPULSE retrieves its C2 server address from Ethereum-based transaction data but has a vulnerability that allows defenders to hijack communication. It achieves persistence through scheduled tasks and supports self-healing capabilities. Privilege escalation is done using the "schuac" UAC bypass technique. The malware conducts system reconnaissance focusing on cryptocurrency wallets and messaging apps but does not directly steal credentials. It shows signs of AI-assisted development and shares tactics with DPRK-aligned threat groups, particularly in targeting cryptocurrency platforms.

Winsage

June 2, 2026

New PHANTOMPULSE RAT Campaign Uses UAC Bypass in Windows Attacks

The REF6598 intrusion set has revealed a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) named PHANTOMPULSE, which is distributed via malicious Obsidian plugins. It uses advanced evasion techniques, including a blockchain-based command and control (C2) channel and a public User Account Control (UAC) bypass to infiltrate Windows systems. The malware disables security measures like the Antimalware Scan Interface (AMSI) and Windows Lockdown Policy (WLDP) through a hardware-breakpoint technique, allowing it to avoid detection by signature-based memory scanners. PHANTOMPULSE hides its core files in encrypted registry blobs and creates scheduled tasks that appear as .NET Framework updates. Its decentralized C2 framework queries public blockchains for operational data, but it lacks sender authentication, which can be exploited by defenders. The malware inventories the system for antivirus software and targets high-value applications. It employs a UAC bypass technique called “schuac” to gain elevated permissions. Analysts attribute this campaign to DPRK-aligned threat actors, particularly the BlueNoroff group, due to its focus on cryptocurrency wallets and blockchain exploitation. Defenders can identify new infrastructure by searching blockchain ledgers for a specific hex signature associated with the malware's C2 encryption routine.

Winsage

June 1, 2026

Windows 11 sandbox flaw lets attackers escape with one click

SafeBreach Labs identified a vulnerability in Windows 11, named Click Or Trick, cataloged as CVE-2025-59199, which was addressed by Microsoft in October 2025. The vulnerability allows a one-click attack from a low-integrity process to achieve arbitrary write capabilities and escalated code execution by exploiting built-in Windows components. The researchers discovered a COM object with an undocumented flag that enabled a low-integrity process to launch a medium-integrity server process using the user's logon token. They found that certain applications could accept command-line parameters through notifications, allowing attackers to execute commands. The Snipping Tool was leveraged to transition execution to another registered application, such as Microsoft Teams, enabling the injection of a remote debugging switch. This exploit chain involved multiple Windows subsystems and was assigned a CVSS score of 7.8.

Winsage

May 26, 2026

How to Remove Microsoft Edge (Windows 10 and 11)

Removing Microsoft Edge from Windows can be complex due to its integration as a system component, especially in Windows 10 and standard Windows 11 installations. Edge may not have a straightforward Uninstall button in the Settings page, but methods exist for uninstallation, including using Edge's own installer or command-line approaches. In the EU, users may find an easier uninstall option in Settings due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). To uninstall Edge, users should check their Windows version and region, install a replacement browser beforehand, and be aware that updates might reinstall Edge. Elevated permissions are typically required for uninstallation methods. Method A involves using Edge's setup.exe in uninstall mode from its Installer directory, which is widely compatible. Method B allows for a Settings-based uninstall in certain EU Windows 11 builds influenced by DMA. Method C uses PowerShell to remove Edge partially but may not be effective on newer builds. Method D suggests disabling Edge instead of fully uninstalling it for better system stability. Advanced techniques exist but carry risks, including potential system integrity issues. Users should consider application dependencies and the likelihood of Windows updates restoring Edge. For enterprise environments, policy-based control is preferred over complete removal. The EU DMA is driving changes toward a more modular Windows architecture, allowing for greater user choice regarding browser components.

AppWizard

May 25, 2026

Over 200 Fake Android Apps Are Quietly Stealing Money From Phone Bills

Zimperium identified a sophisticated malware campaign that exploited nearly 250 Android applications, posing as popular games and social media platforms. The malware ensnared users into premium subscription services without consent, using techniques like JavaScript injection and interception of one-time passwords. The campaign primarily targeted users in Malaysia, Romania, Thailand, and Croatia, with the malware capable of reading SIM cards and activating for specific mobile carriers. Zimperium first detected the scam in March 2025 and monitored it until at least January 2026. Google stated that none of the compromised applications were available on its app store and emphasized that Android users are protected by Google Play Protect. The hackers deployed three malware variants, with the first using an automated subscription engine, the second targeting users in Thailand with premium SMS messages, and the third combining SMS fraud with real-time notifications to attackers via Telegram. The campaign primarily affected Malaysian SIM card users, with significant activity also in Thailand and Romania. Despite the campaign's last known activity in January, parts of its infrastructure remain operational. The attacks highlight vulnerabilities in application security and the challenges of policing app downloads from third-party marketplaces.

AppWizard

May 25, 2026

How mathematicians use Minecraft to calculate pi

Mathematicians Molly Lynch and Michael Weselcouch developed a method to approximate the value of pi (π) within the game Minecraft using a probabilistic darts technique. They constructed a circular structure with a radius of 11 blocks surrounded by a square and introduced random events using slimes, which move randomly. By counting the number of slimes killed within the circle compared to the total number killed, they calculated an approximation of π. During their test, they killed 619 slimes, with 508 inside the circular area, yielding an approximation of π ≈ 3.283. They noted that increasing the size of the square and the number of slimes could improve accuracy.

Winsage

May 11, 2026

New GhostLock tool abuses Windows API to block file access

A security researcher has developed a proof-of-concept tool called GhostLock, which exploits a vulnerability in the Windows file API, specifically the 'CreateFileW' function. By manipulating the 'dwShareMode' parameter to grant exclusive access to files, GhostLock can prevent other users or applications from opening those files, resulting in a 'STATUSSHARINGVIOLATION' error. The tool automates the process of opening multiple files on SMB shares, causing access disruptions without requiring elevated privileges. This technique is intended as a disruption attack rather than a destructive one, similar to ransomware, and can serve as a diversion during intrusions. Detection of this attack relies on monitoring the open-file count with ShareAccess set to 0 at the file server layer. Dvash has provided resources for IT teams to enhance detection capabilities against this threat.