variants Archives

Winsage

April 30, 2025

Arch is the latest official WSL distro

Arch Linux now has an official WSL image, announced by developer Robin Candau, making it available for installation on the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) 2. This new support allows users to install Arch Linux with a single command, eliminating the need for custom containers or images. The official listing includes Arch Linux among other distributions, and it has a market share of 9.68% on Steam, with a combined share of 14.74% when considering its downstream distributions. Arch Linux is popular among users who prefer a customizable experience and has gained attention in the tech community, including endorsements from notable figures like PewDiePie.

AppWizard

April 26, 2025

The Secret Weapon Behind the VFX of ‘A Minecraft Movie’

Director Jared Hess helmed "A Minecraft Movie," which emphasizes creativity and the struggle between freedom and oppression. The film features a villain named Malgosha, a Piglin ruler from the Nether, voiced by Rachel House, with motion capture by Allan Henry. Production VFX supervisor Dan Lemmon discussed the challenges of integrating live-action actors like Jason Momoa and Jack Black with animated characters while maintaining the game's aesthetic. The team developed a tool called "Bloktz" for achieving the distinctive "Minecraft" look, and twelve variants of the Piglin army were designed. The Creeper character, initially a coding error, underwent numerous design iterations to maintain its pixelated essence. Malgosha's design was inspired by characters like Emperor Palpatine and Mama Fratelli, with adjustments made for expressiveness. The film's conclusion features an improvised moment between Jack Black's character and Malgosha, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the production.

Winsage

April 22, 2025

5 things the Surface Pro 12 needs to finally beat the Apple iPad Pro in 2025

The Surface Pro 11 has been praised as an excellent 2-in-1 device, but there are areas for improvement. Microsoft is set to release the Surface Pro 12 later this year, expected to feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 SoC, which promises enhanced performance similar to Apple's M4 chip. Key improvements anticipated include more uniform bezels, a reduction in thickness, and a lighter design to enhance usability as a 2-in-1 device. There is also a desire for 5G models to be available at launch, as previous releases have seen delays. Consumers are calling for both Snapdragon and Intel options to have the same features, addressing the current disparity. Additionally, there is a request for the return of vibrant colors, particularly red, to the Surface Pro lineup.

Winsage

April 22, 2025

These 7 WSL programs changed how I use Windows

Windows users previously faced challenges using Linux tools via virtual machines until the introduction of the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), which was further improved with WSL2. WSL2 integrates a lightweight virtual machine into Windows, allowing users to run Linux applications seamlessly. Runtipi and CasaOS can be easily set up on WSL2 to host self-service applications without complex configurations. Visual Studio Code (VS Code) offers a WSL extension that enables code execution directly in Linux distributions from Windows, enhancing the coding experience. Gigolo is a frontend for managing network shares, which can also be integrated into Windows 11 through WSL2. Ansible can automate the provisioning of virtual machines and containers on WSL2, making it easier for users engaged in DIY projects. Rsync can be installed via WSL2 for efficient file synchronization and backups on Windows. Podman Desktop allows Windows users to explore container runtimes using WSL2, providing a GUI for managing containers. Lastly, WSL2 enables users to access the Linux terminal and run various Linux distributions directly within Windows 11.

Tech Optimizer

April 18, 2025

Breached Identities and Infostealers: One of the Largest Ongoing Data Leak in History

Breached identities due to infostealer malware are a significant threat to corporate information security in 2024. Infostealers are a type of remote access trojan that exfiltrate sensitive data, including saved credentials, session cookies, browser history, crypto wallet information, screen captures, and host data. Infections often stem from downloading cracked software, malicious advertising, fake Windows updates, and repackaged games. Infostealers do not require local administrative privileges, making them easy to execute. Threat actors primarily aim to profit from breached bank accounts and crypto wallets, often bypassing multi-factor authentication by targeting session cookies. They also seek credentials for subscription services and corporate access. Research shows that 90% of breached companies had leaked corporate credentials in a stealer log, with 78% experiencing leaks within six months of a breach. In comparison, 76% of similar companies without breaches had experienced a corporate stealer log compromise. The investigation identified high-criticality credentials from various corporate applications, indicating that a single user often has access to multiple credentials. The rise of infostealer malware represents a broad threat, encompassing a wide range of sensitive data. Organizations are advised to implement strategies such as restricting download privileges, avoiding illegal content, disabling macros, and regularly updating software to mitigate risks associated with infostealer malware.

AppWizard

April 10, 2025

What’s the Viral ‘Chicken Jockey’ Trend Getting ‘Minecraft’ Fans Kicked Out of Theaters?

The Minecraft movie has become a cultural sensation following its record-breaking opening weekend, leading to the emergence of the "Chicken Jockey Trend." In Minecraft, a Chicken Jockey is a rare mob combination of a Baby Zombie riding a Chicken, known for its rarity, aggression, speed, and unique behaviors such as not taking fall damage. The likelihood of encountering a Chicken Jockey is approximately 5% in areas with both chickens and baby zombies. The trend has led audiences to create their own Chicken Jockeys during screenings, resulting in chaotic but enthusiastic interactions. Movie theaters are facing challenges managing the excitement, including cleanup issues and safety concerns, while also benefiting from increased ticket sales.

AppWizard

April 10, 2025

SpyNote Android malware resurfaces in campaign using spoofed app install pages

A report from DomainTools LLC reveals that cybercriminals are using newly registered domains to distribute the SpyNote Android remote access trojan (RAT) by creating fake websites that resemble legitimate Google Play app installation pages. These counterfeit pages often include familiar visual elements to deceive users into downloading harmful APK files, such as a site mimicking the TikTok installation page. The downloaded files typically contain variants of SpyNote, which can conduct surveillance, harvest sensitive information, and execute remote commands on compromised devices. The delivery mechanism involves a two-stage process where a dropper APK installs a secondary APK with core spyware functionalities, utilizing JavaScript to trigger downloads from fake install buttons. Common characteristics of the domains distributing SpyNote include registration with NameSilo LLC and XinNet Technology Corp., hosting on infrastructure linked to Lightnode Ltd and Vultr Holdings LLC, and the presence of SSL certificates. The malware delivery sites contain code in both English and Chinese, suggesting a Chinese-speaking threat actor may be involved. SpyNote has been associated with advanced persistent threat groups targeting individuals in South Asia, including those in the Indian defense sector. Once installed, SpyNote requests intrusive permissions to access SMS, contacts, call logs, camera, microphone, and location services, and employs persistence mechanisms that make it difficult to remove. DomainTools advises users to be vigilant against spoofed app pages and avoid sideloading APKs from unverified sources.

AppWizard

April 10, 2025

China’s Surveillance Push via Android Apps – Australian Cyber Security Magazine

The UK Cyber League has supported a new advisory by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC UK) in collaboration with several international partners, including the Australian Cyber Security Centre, the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, the German Federal Intelligence Service, the German Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, the New Zealand National Cyber Security Centre, the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States National Security Agency. The advisory focuses on two spyware variants, BADBAZAAR and MOONSHINE, and provides guidance for app store operators, developers, and social media companies to enhance user safety. Spyware is defined as malware that installs on a device without the user’s consent, collecting and sending data to a third party. The advisory emphasizes the need for vigilance and proactive measures against such threats.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

How to change to a vertical scrolling app drawer on One UI 7

Samsung has introduced a vertical scrolling app drawer in One UI 7, responding to user demand. This update is available for the Galaxy S25 series and for users who upgrade to One UI 7. The rollout for older devices has faced delays, with beta versions currently available for Galaxy S24 owners and a final build expected in early April. New features in One UI 7 include the Now Bar, which provides real-time updates, and Now Brief, offering personalized briefings. Other features include cross-app action, audio eraser, auto trim, and AI drawing assist. The Galaxy S25 Ultra features a larger display, improved ultrawide camera, and lighter design compared to its predecessor.

AppWizard

March 28, 2025

PJobRAT Android RAT as Dating & Instant Messaging Apps Attacking Military Personnel

PJobRAT is an Android Remote Access Trojan (RAT) that re-emerged in 2023 with improved capabilities and a refined targeting strategy, previously known for attacking Indian military personnel in 2021. It is now targeting users in Taiwan through social engineering tactics, disguising itself as legitimate dating and messaging apps. The malware is distributed via compromised WordPress sites hosting fake applications like “SaangalLite” and “CChat.” The infection footprint is small, indicating highly targeted attacks rather than widespread campaigns. PJobRAT retains its core functionality of exfiltrating sensitive information, including SMS messages, contacts, and media files, while enhancing command execution capabilities. Upon installation, the malicious apps request extensive permissions to operate continuously in the background. The malware uses a dual-channel communication infrastructure, with Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) as the primary command channel and a secondary HTTP-based channel for data exfiltration to a command-and-control server. The campaign appears to have concluded, but the evolution of PJobRAT highlights the ongoing threat of sophisticated mobile malware targeting high-value individuals.