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Your free VPN on Android often offers less protection than you might think
AppWizard
July 12, 2026

Your free VPN on Android often offers less protection than you might think

The MVPNalyzer Study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan analyzed various VPN services, focusing on their performance metrics, data privacy practices, and effectiveness in bypassing geographical restrictions. The study revealed that some VPNs excel in speed while others prioritize security features, and not all services provide the same level of data protection, with certain logging practices raising concerns. The findings encourage users to closely examine VPN services regarding speed, privacy policies, and data management, while urging VPN providers to improve transparency and invest in user security technologies.
4 security upgrades in Android 17 you didn't know about, but will be glad to have
AppWizard
June 19, 2026

4 security upgrades in Android 17 you didn’t know about, but will be glad to have

Google's Android 17 update is being deployed to Pixel devices, introducing new features such as multitasking bubbles, expanded dark theme controls, and a revamped screen recording interface. Key user preferences from a poll indicate that 32% favor multitasking app bubbles, while other features received varying levels of support. The update includes App Memory Limits to prevent excessive RAM usage by apps, enhancing performance. It also restricts apps from scanning local networks without explicit permission, improving user privacy. Additionally, Android 17 tightens restrictions on dynamic code loading to strengthen malware protection and implements Certificate Transparency protections by default for secure HTTPS connections. Overall, these changes aim to enhance performance, security, and user experience.
Real-World Threats Demand Real Results
Tech Optimizer
June 19, 2026

Real-World Threats Demand Real Results

AV-Comparatives conducted a Real-World Protection Test from February to May 2026, evaluating 20 consumer security products against real-world internet threats. Seven products received the ADVANCED+ award for their effective protection and low false alarm rates. The complete test report is available for free at av-comparatives.org. The evaluated products included well-known security solutions such as Avast, AVG, Bitdefender, Kaspersky, Microsoft, Norton, and TotalAV. The test aimed to assess how well these products protect against various online threats, including malware embedded in trusted platforms.
Android 17 review: Bubbling with excitement
AppWizard
June 18, 2026

Android 17 review: Bubbling with excitement

Recent updates in Android, particularly with Android 17, focus on refining existing functionalities rather than introducing numerous new features. Key highlights include: - Revamped multitasking capabilities with expanded chat bubbles, allowing interaction with multiple apps simultaneously. - A bubble bar for foldable devices that displays all active floating windows for easy access, though launching apps as bubbles from the recents menu is not supported. - Tailored updates for foldable devices, including a dedicated gaming mode and native controller remapping for customization. - New customization options, such as hiding app labels on home screens and per-app adjustments for the dark theme. - Enhanced background blur effects and the ability to disable them through accessibility settings. - Security updates including Theft Detection Lock and Remote Lock enabled by default, and a new Contact Picker feature for sharing specific contacts. - Improved parental controls allowing for daily limits, downtime schedules, and individual app restrictions. - A consistent user experience across devices, with applications adapting to different screen sizes and the introduction of features like Continue On for cross-device continuity. - Anticipated future enhancements related to Gemini Intelligence.
silver Android smartphone
Tech Optimizer
June 18, 2026

Real-World Threats Demand Real Results

AV-Comparatives conducted its Real-World Protection Test from February to May 2026, assessing 20 consumer security products against real-world internet threats. Seven products received the ADVANCED+ award for their reliable protection capabilities. The complete test report is available for free at av-comparatives.org. The tested products included well-known names such as Avast, AVG, Bitdefender, Kaspersky, Microsoft, Norton, and TotalAV. The test methodology involved evaluating the products against a curated set of threats and assessing false-positive rates.
YouTube Brings Back In-App Messaging Feature: Here's How To Use It
AppWizard
June 13, 2026

YouTube Brings Back In-App Messaging Feature: Here’s How To Use It

YouTube has reintroduced its messaging feature, allowing users to share videos and engage in conversations directly within the app. This feature is currently available in the United States and select other regions, with plans for a wider rollout, including India. Users must be at least 18 years old to access the feature, which includes an age verification process. To enable it, users can create an invite link within the app to chat with known contacts. The feature is accessible in various countries, including the UK, Germany, France, and others. Users can share any YouTube video, but messages are not end-to-end encrypted and are subject to YouTube's Community Guidelines.
Unpatched Windows Search URI Vulnerability Lets Attackers Steal NTLMv2 Hashes
Winsage
June 3, 2026

Unpatched Windows Search URI Vulnerability Lets Attackers Steal NTLMv2 Hashes

Cybersecurity researchers have identified an unpatched vulnerability that could expose NTLMv2 hashes to attackers, linked to the "search:" URI handler. This issue is similar to CVE-2026-33829, which involved a spoofing vulnerability in the Windows Snipping Tool's ms-screensketch: URI handler. The flaw allows attackers to trick users into connecting to their SMB servers, disclosing NTLMv2 hashes for authentication exploitation. The new vulnerability operates using "search:" and "crumb=location:" parameters, resulting in a similar Net-NTLMv2 leak. Microsoft has chosen not to address this issue, stating only vulnerabilities classified as Important or Critical would be fixed. Recommendations to mitigate risks include blocking outbound SMB traffic, enforcing SMB signing, and disabling NTLM authentication where possible.
Norton 360 review: Powerful and bang-for-your-buck antivirus software
Tech Optimizer
May 29, 2026

Norton 360 review: Powerful and bang-for-your-buck antivirus software

Norton 360 is an antivirus solution that offers protection against AI scams, ransomware, and deepfakes. It includes 24/7 customer support, a user-friendly interface, and a 60-day money-back guarantee. The Standard plan costs .99 per year and covers one device with malware and ransomware defense, Deepfake Protection, and Dark Web Monitoring. Higher-tier plans provide additional features like parental controls, a secure VPN, and cloud backup. Norton 360 has a straightforward installation process and various scanning options that do not significantly impact system performance. It includes an AI assistant called Ask Genie and offers extensive support options, including a chatbot for user inquiries.
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