trust Archives

Winsage

May 25, 2026

How I Changed the SID on My Windows Server Without Reinstalling (And Why You Should Care)

Cloning a Windows Server machine can lead to issues with duplicate Security Identifiers (SIDs). A Security Identifier (SID) is a unique string assigned to every machine, user, and group in Windows, functioning like a fingerprint. Duplicate SIDs can cause problems such as domain join failures, incorrect WSUS reporting, inconsistent Group Policy application, and licensing issues. The author initially attempted to use sysprep to change the SID after cloning, which resulted in stripping the domain join and causing SQL Server to fail. The author then discovered Wittytool Disk Clone, which includes a SID changer that successfully generated a new SID and updated all necessary references without disrupting the server's configuration or applications. The process took only six minutes and worked similarly on Windows Server 2019. It is more efficient to generate a new SID during the cloning process rather than afterward. Important precautions include taking a snapshot or backup before making changes and being aware that changing the SID on domain controllers is more complex. Reactivation of Windows may also be required after the SID change.

Winsage

May 25, 2026

5 things Microsoft isn’t fixing with Windows 11 that I’d love to see happen

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 with significant updates, including a revamped Windows Update, performance improvements, and customization options for the Start menu and taskbar. The company is addressing device driver issues and engaging with the Windows 11 community for feedback. Users desire features such as a toggle to eliminate advertisements and recommendations, the option to remove references to OneDrive, Bing, Edge, and Game Pass, and the ability to disable web search results in Windows 11 search. The requirement for a Microsoft account for Windows 11 installation has frustrated users who prefer local accounts, prompting calls for the restoration of this option. Users also seek meaningful control over default app installations and the ability to turn off telemetry easily, as current settings are complex. Additionally, there are long-standing projects in Windows 11 that require completion, such as fully integrating dark mode, incorporating the Light Switch feature from PowerToys, and accelerating the migration of legacy features from the Control Panel to the Settings app.

Winsage

May 25, 2026

Windows zero-days expose gaps in built-in security protections

Two Windows zero-day vulnerabilities, YellowKey and GreenPlasma, have been identified. YellowKey targets the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) on Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025, allowing attackers with physical access to bypass BitLocker protections using a USB device. GreenPlasma affects Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server environments with active Collaborative Translation Framework Monitor (CTFMON) sessions, enabling local privilege escalation from a standard user account to SYSTEM-level privileges. Both vulnerabilities require either physical or local access to exploit. Microsoft has not yet released patches for these vulnerabilities, prompting organizations to enhance their security measures and operational resilience. Recommendations include reassessing physical security, limiting local administrative access, and implementing multifactor authentication and robust credential management practices.

Winsage

May 23, 2026

Microsoft solves case of vanishing Windows 11 desktop — fix is rolling out for blank desktop, taskbar freezes and other flakiness

Windows 11 has been experiencing interface issues, including a freezing taskbar, unresponsive File Explorer, and blank desktops, which Microsoft has categorized as 'general reliability' issues. To address these concerns, Microsoft is rolling out the May update for Windows 11, which began distribution last week. This update aims to enhance the reliability of components like explorer.exe, taskbar menus, and Task View interactions. Users may experience improvements in performance, particularly during sign-in processes and when managing items in File Explorer's Quick Access. The update is also being tested for the upcoming 26H1 version for Arm-based Snapdragon devices. Despite the positive changes, some users remain cautious about potential new glitches.

Winsage

May 23, 2026

CVE-2026-45585: YellowKey BitLocker Bypass

BitLocker, a security feature for data protection, has a vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-45585, also known as YellowKey, which allows unauthorized access to encrypted data on Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, 26H1, and Windows Server 2025. This flaw does not compromise BitLocker’s encryption but affects the recovery environment supporting it. The vulnerability can be exploited locally through the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) by an attacker with physical access, who can trigger an unrestricted shell and access the BitLocker-protected volume. Microsoft has provided two mitigation strategies: modifying the WinRE image to remove the autofstx.exe entry and transitioning from TPM-only protection to a TPM+PIN requirement at startup. The exploit poses challenges for detection, as it occurs pre-boot and currently lacks vendor-published indicators of compromise. Organizations using BitLocker for unattended devices are particularly at risk, as the vulnerability can lead to loss of confidentiality if an attacker gains access before the legitimate user.

AppWizard

May 22, 2026

Subnautica 2 could become a chilling horror game, if only it would shut up

Subnautica 2 features players as the sole survivor of a failed expedition on an alien planet, awakening disoriented after a disaster. The game incorporates an AI assistant named NoA, which provides constant reminders about survival needs, often causing frustration. The narrative heavily relies on audio logs that interrupt exploration and detract from the immersive atmosphere, as they auto-play at inconvenient times and often spoon-feed information rather than allowing for organic discovery. This reliance on audio logs diminishes the thrill of exploration and the sense of agency for players. Despite its potential, the game's narrative structure undermines the overall experience.

AppWizard

May 22, 2026

Zero Parades: For Dead Spies – Official PC Launch Trailer

Zero Parades: For Dead Spies has launched on PC through Steam, GOG, and the Epic Games Store. Players follow Hershel Wilk, a spy with the cryptonym CASCADE, as she returns to the city of Portofiro to reunite her team for a final mission after the collapse of her network five years prior. The game features a narrative rich in espionage, decision-making, and character development, emphasizing themes of redemption and trust. The launch trailer showcases the game's storytelling and gameplay.

Tech Optimizer

May 21, 2026

The HackerNoon Newsletter: It’s 2026, Just Use Postgres (5/17/2026)

Recent advancements in technology include the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into business operations, leading to enhanced efficiency and productivity. Automation tools are being adopted to streamline workflows, reduce human error, and improve employee satisfaction. Organizations are leveraging data analytics to gain insights for strategic decision-making, using predictive analytics to anticipate market trends and consumer behavior. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on cybersecurity, with companies investing in robust security measures to protect sensitive information and maintain consumer trust.

AppWizard

May 21, 2026

Mortal Sin is my favorite roguelite you haven’t played, and it’s a steal in this Steam key bundle

Mortal Sin is an indie roguelite game that combines elements from titles like Dark Messiah, Warhammer: Vermintide, Roboquest, and Hades. It features a visceral landscape filled with gore and a variety of melee weapons, encouraging aggressive gameplay. Players can execute limb-severing combos and must manage weapon durability to survive. The game is currently available for .50 as part of the Prestige Collection XL Bundle from Fanatical, requiring the purchase of two games totaling .99.

AppWizard

May 21, 2026

Binance’s Android app privacy fight is back in the spotlight

Binance is facing scrutiny regarding the data collection practices of its Android app, which some users believe functions more as a data collection tool than a trading platform. Concerns have been raised about the app's extensive permissions and tracking capabilities, with a report indicating the presence of numerous tracking components, including SDKs from TikTok and WeChat, and over 50 system permissions. Binance's privacy portal states that data is collected for account management, security, marketing, fraud prevention, and legal compliance. Despite this, there are questions about whether the data collection practices are proportionate to the app's intended functions. Binance has a history of legal issues, including a guilty plea in November 2023 that resulted in a .32 billion penalty for anti-money laundering violations. The exchange claims to tailor its privacy framework to regional regulations, but user concerns about the app's tracking capabilities persist. As of early 2026, Binance has over 300 million registered users, making any privacy-related disputes potentially impactful. The ongoing scrutiny may lead to gradual adjustments in Binance's practices rather than a complete overhaul.