webcams Archives

Winsage

June 15, 2025

Windows 11 upgrade workarounds might not be safe

Microsoft will cease providing security updates, bug fixes, and technical support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Users can consider several options: 1. Upgrade to Windows 11 if their PCs meet compatibility criteria. 2. Replace their computer with a new one that comes pre-installed with Windows 11. 3. Use an unofficial workaround to install Windows 11 on unsupported hardware, though this carries risks. 4. Pay for Extended Security Updates (ESUs) after the deadline, primarily aimed at business customers.

Winsage

June 13, 2025

Data Doctors: How to work safely in a Windows 10 environment when security updates stop

Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, ceasing all security updates, bug fixes, and technical support. Users have several options for transitioning to Windows 11: 1. Upgrade to Windows 11 if the PC meets compatibility criteria (TPM 2.0 chip and newer processor). 2. Replace the computer with a new one that comes pre-installed with Windows 11. 3. Use an unofficial workaround to install Windows 11 on noncompliant systems, which carries risks such as lack of future updates and system instability. 4. Pay for Extended Security Updates (ESUs) after the deadline, primarily for business customers but potentially available for individuals. Running an unsupported operating system after 2025 is not advisable.

Tech Optimizer

June 10, 2025

Norton 360 Deluxe antivirus review

Norton 360 Deluxe is a comprehensive antivirus solution that offers extensive security features, including protection against botnets, brute force attacks, and vulnerabilities related to file and print sharing. It provides webcam protection, secure application sandboxing, and a Safe Search feature for risky websites. Users can create a rescue disk for emergencies. Scanning capabilities include quick scans, full scans, targeted folder scans, and a pre-boot deep scan, with the full scan completing in about four minutes. Parental controls allow management of screen time and website access across devices, while the included VPN can disable internet access if a compromised site is visited. Performance testing showed that Norton 360 Deluxe efficiently processed 927,000 files in about four minutes on various devices, significantly outperforming competitors like Bitdefender and McAfee. The Startup Scan feature is thorough but takes longer. The VPN maintained download speeds without noticeable degradation. Additional features include privacy monitoring tools, performance checks for outdated software, junk file removal, and limited cloud backup support for Windows devices. The user-friendly interface highlights key features and includes a search function for easy navigation. Norton provides 24/7 support through online chat and phone, with no email support available. The initial interaction with the virtual agent was efficient, followed by prompt human support.

Tech Optimizer

May 28, 2025

Watch out – that antivirus website could be a fake, and infecting your PC with malware

Researchers have discovered a fraudulent website, "bitdefender-download[.]com," posing as Bitdefender antivirus, which is used to distribute the VenomRAT Remote Access Trojan. The site, hosted on an Amazon S3 bucket, tricks users into downloading harmful software through an executable file named "StoreInstaller.exe," which is linked to VenomRAT and contains code from post-exploitation frameworks SilentTrinity and StormKitty stealer. VenomRAT allows cybercriminals to gain unauthorized control over Windows systems, steal sensitive information, log keystrokes, access webcams, and execute commands remotely. The primary goal of this campaign is to steal cryptocurrency by compromising credentials and crypto wallets. The investigation also found connections to other fraudulent operations impersonating banks and IT services, including the Armenian IDBank and the Royal Bank of Canada.

Tech Optimizer

May 28, 2025

Avast Premium antivirus review

Avast Premium is priced at .99 per year and offers a robust suite of security features without unnecessary bloatware. It allows users to back up sensitive files, search for personal data, and block unauthorized webcam access. The software includes quick scans, targeted folder scans, and boot-time scans. It features Email Guardian for scanning incoming messages, a sandbox mode for secure application use, and a banking mode for safe online transactions. A quick scan takes about three minutes, while a full boot sector scan takes approximately 12 minutes. Avast Premium identified around 900,000 files during testing, fewer than some competitors. It lacks comprehensive privacy protection and performance enhancement tools, which may require additional subscriptions. The interface is functional but lacks the sleekness of competitors. Support is available 24/7 via chat, with phone support primarily for billing inquiries and email support tickets for further assistance.

Tech Optimizer

April 17, 2025

Bitdefender Antivirus review

Bitdefender Total Security offers comprehensive antivirus protection, a VPN with a daily limit of 200 MB, and specific protections for cryptocurrency mining. The software includes multi-layered antivirus protection, real-time Advanced Threat Detection, Ransomware Remediation, a firewall, and an anti-spam feature. Performance testing shows minimal impact on speed, with quick scans completing in minutes and full scans taking about 30 minutes. Additional features include a secure browser for financial transactions, a virtual keyboard, a trial password manager, webcam and microphone privacy controls, and PC optimization tools. The user interface is designed for ease of use, with a customizable dashboard and intuitive navigation. Support options include phone, chat, and email, with quick transitions to live agents. Bitdefender typically retails at .99 annually, with competitors offering lower introductory prices.

Winsage

April 14, 2025

Can’t securely login to your PC using facial recognition anymore? New Windows 11 update patch is likely to blame – if you can install the update at all

The April 2025 cumulative update for Windows 11, identified as KB5055523, has caused issues with the Windows Hello feature, particularly affecting users with privacy shutters on their webcams. Reports indicate that facial recognition no longer functions properly unless the privacy cover is removed. Users have suggested uninstalling the update as a workaround, while a potential solution involves disabling the RGB camera in Device Manager. Microsoft has acknowledged a separate issue related to Windows Hello affecting specific security features in Windows 11 Pro or enterprise editions. Additionally, users have reported installation failures with the April update, encountering error messages and stalling during the process. Other notable bugs include language inconsistencies, the uninstallation of the Copilot app, and a glitch in File Explorer's menu display.

Winsage

March 7, 2025

Akira Ransomware Targets Windows Servers via RDP and Evades EDR with Webcam Trick

The Akira ransomware group has demonstrated its ability to bypass Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools by exploiting an unsecured webcam. In 2024, Akira was responsible for 15% of ransomware incidents addressed by the S-RM team. The group typically gains access through remote access solutions and uses tools like AnyDesk.exe. In a recent attempt to deploy ransomware on a Windows server, their initial effort was thwarted by EDR detection. Subsequently, they conducted an internal network scan and targeted a vulnerable webcam, which lacked EDR protection. By compromising the webcam, Akira deployed Linux-based ransomware to encrypt files across the victim’s network. This incident highlights the need for organizations to patch and manage IoT devices, audit networks for vulnerabilities, implement network segmentation, and monitor IoT traffic for anomalies.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

Windows 11’s February update breaks File Explorer and more

The update KB5051987 for Windows 11 24H2 aimed to enhance security and user experience but has led to numerous issues. Users have reported unresponsiveness in File Explorer, with the application freezing or failing to open. Some users experience a black desktop, and attempts at system restoration or reinstallation have not resolved the problems. Many users are unable to install the update due to persistent error messages, leading to an endless update loop. Clearing the software distribution folder may help, but patience is required. Camera functionality has also been affected, with systems failing to recognize webcams. Additional issues include performance drops during gaming, installation errors in Windows Sandbox, glitches in taskbar preview animations, and some users being unable to boot into Windows. Uninstalling the update is an option for those facing severe issues, but it leaves systems vulnerable until Microsoft addresses the problems.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

Windows 11 requires authorization in Notepad — but not for all

Users have expressed frustration over the requirement to sign in to a Microsoft account to access the new Rewrite feature in Notepad on Windows 11, which is available only on Copilot+ PCs. The basic functionalities of Notepad do not require an account. Microsoft is testing a more integrated version of Copilot for Windows 11, moving away from its current web-based experience. Users have also reported issues with Bluetooth connectivity, headphones, and webcams following recent updates to Windows 11, with ongoing anticipation for enhancements to features like “Conductor” and the taskbar.