websites Archives

Winsage

July 13, 2026

Force any site into dark mode with Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge is set to introduce a feature that allows users to enforce dark mode on any website as part of the "Web Remix" initiative. This feature enables users to customize web pages, including simplifying articles, providing summaries, organizing recipes into shopping lists, converting prices to local currencies, and updating webpage appearances. It operates locally and can be toggled on or off via a button in the address bar. Users can access Web Remix by enabling specific flags in Edge Canary. While it effectively applies dark mode to websites lacking native support, results may vary, and some elements may be altered in ways that are not ideal. Premium extensions like Dark Reader offer more nuanced dark mode customization compared to Web Remix.

Winsage

July 12, 2026

No, Windows did not fall below 60% market share or lose 15 points to Linux

StatCounter reported a decline in Windows' market share from approximately 79% in April 2026 to 56.55% by June 2026, indicating a drop of 22.45 percentage points. However, this figure was later corrected to 72%, with expectations of a rebound towards 78%. A significant portion of the market was classified as "Unknown," representing 21.45%, likely due to misclassification of devices. StatCounter has faced previous inaccuracies, including a misreported resurgence of Windows 7 and a drop in Google's market share. The company tracks web usage through data from over 1.5 million websites, but acknowledges that its figures are estimates and can be distorted by various factors. Microsoft confirmed that Windows is installed on approximately 1.6 billion devices.

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

Do you have the Sun App yet ? Available FREE on Apple and Android with rave reviews!!

The Sun News App, developed by Mystic Media Dot Com, consolidates headlines from Wellsville, Hornell, and Keuka into a single platform, allowing users to access news easily. The app is free, has received positive feedback from users, and has no reported complaints. It offers local businesses an opportunity for brand visibility as the user base is expected to grow through 2026. Interested businesses can inquire about advertising opportunities via email at WellsvilleSun@yahoo.com. Mystic Media Dot Com also offers app development services for businesses.

Winsage

July 12, 2026

Microsoft Confirms Windows GDID Device Identifier That Cannot Be Disabled, Documented in FBI Case Filing

Microsoft has confirmed the existence of the Global Device Identifier (GDID), a unique identifier assigned to Windows installations, in a federal complaint against an alleged member of the Scattered Spider hacking group. The GDID is generated when a Windows system is set up with a Microsoft Account and remains active through various Windows updates. Disabling the GDID could disrupt Windows activation and access to Microsoft Store applications. The GDID is described as "a persistent, device-level identifier designed to uniquely identify an installation of a Windows operating system on a device." It is created during the provisioning of Windows with a Microsoft Account and is stored in the Windows registry under HKCUSOFTWAREMicrosoftIdentityCRLExtendedProperties. The GDID remains persistent through Windows updates but is not retained after a clean reinstall. A single user can possess multiple GDIDs linked through their account, OneDrive, and activation history. The FBI used the GDID to track Peter Stokes, an alleged member of the Scattered Spider group, across various VPN connections and proxy servers. The GDID was recorded visiting specific websites and was linked to Stokes's accounts on platforms like Snapchat and Facebook. Concerns have been raised regarding user privacy, as the GDID is assigned without user consent and cannot be disabled without compromising essential Windows features. Microsoft has not committed to providing user-facing controls or comprehensive documentation for everyday users regarding the GDID. Legal requests can compel Microsoft to disclose GDID activity data to law enforcement. The GDID is linked to the Microsoft Account rather than the device itself, meaning reinstalling the operating system does not sever this connection.

AppWizard

July 11, 2026

Police Alert Parents And Gamers To Dangerous Minecraft Malware Campaign

The Montgomery County Police Department has issued a warning about a malware campaign called “WeedHack” targeting Minecraft players. This malware is spread through fake Minecraft modifications and downloads, leading to significant risks for users. Over 116,000 players have been infected since early 2026, with new infections occurring at a rate of 2,000 to 3,000 daily. The malware can steal passwords, hijack accounts, access cryptocurrency wallets, capture screenshots, disable security measures, and install backdoors for ongoing access. More advanced versions can activate webcams and monitor user activity. The department advises downloading mods only from trusted sources, being cautious with links promoting free clients, using strong passwords, keeping antivirus software updated, and discussing the risks of unofficial software with children. Individuals who suspect they have been targeted should report it to the police.

Tech Optimizer

July 11, 2026

ESET NOD32 antivirus just dropped a 1-year subscription to $20

ESET NOD32 Antivirus offers a one-year subscription for .99, reduced from the regular price of .99. It utilizes AI-powered analysis for real-time threat detection, including viruses, spyware, rootkits, and zero-day exploits. The software features a Ransomware Shield, anti-phishing measures, and Intel Threat Detection Technology for enhanced security. It includes a multithread scanning feature to optimize performance and a Gamer Mode that suspends notifications during full-screen applications. The ESET HOME app allows users to monitor licenses and security reports via mobile devices.

Winsage

July 10, 2026

A hacker’s arrest just revealed how Microsoft can track your Windows device

A teenager named Peter Stokes is facing federal charges in Chicago for allegedly hacking a U.S. jewelry retailer while using a VPN to conceal his online activities. Microsoft provided the FBI with data linked to a tracking mechanism called the Global Device Identifier (GDID), which is a unique number assigned to every Windows installation that persists through updates. This identifier allowed authorities to connect Stokes' computer to specific websites, despite his VPN usage. Stokes was arrested in Helsinki in April 2026 while trying to board a flight to Japan, carrying two two-terabyte hard drives. The GDID enabled Microsoft to track Stokes' activities on third-party services, raising concerns about privacy and data tracking.

AppWizard

July 10, 2026

Proton VPN on Android: features, requirements, how to install

Proton VPN is a prominent VPN provider known for its speed and security, with its headquarters in Switzerland, which has strong privacy laws. The Android app features include Secure Core for enhanced anonymity, NetShield Ad-blocker to block ads and trackers, a kill switch to protect data during connection drops, alternative routing for bypassing restrictions, split tunneling for selective app usage, a VPN Accelerator for increased speeds, and P2P support for secure file sharing. The app requires Android 8 or later for installation, which can be done via the Play Store. Users can connect as guests to access limited features of Proton VPN Free.

Tech Optimizer

July 10, 2026

I tested Norton Antivirus on my PC – and it found a hidden Trojan in 15 minutes

Norton Antivirus is a well-regarded malware protection tool, consistently ranking among the top in the industry with a robust suite of security features. It has a user-friendly interface similar to Malwarebytes, but intrusive upselling tactics detract from usability. Norton offers comprehensive scanning tools, including Quick Scan, Full Scan, Smart Scan, Targeted Scan, and Startup Scan, which successfully detected a Trojan missed by other antivirus software. Its Scam Protection tools provide alerts for online scams and phishing attempts, and it includes unique features like Deepfake Protection and an AI assistant named Genie. According to MRG Effitas, Norton blocked 98% of malware samples with a 0.33% miss rate, achieving a Level 2 certification. Pricing includes several plans, with Norton 360 Deluxe offering the best value at an introductory price of .99 for the first year, rising to .99 annually. Despite its strengths, the intrusive upselling makes it less recommendable compared to Malwarebytes, although it has unique capabilities in threat detection and a comprehensive suite of security tools.

Tech Optimizer

July 9, 2026

This antivirus doesn’t slow your PC down — it quietly keeps it safe for $19.99

ESET NOD32 Antivirus for Windows is available for .99 for a one-year subscription. It operates in the background, providing protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware without causing noticeable slowdowns. Key features include a Ransomware Shield, Anti-phishing Protection, Gamer Mode, and AI-assisted Threat Detection. It is designed for users who multitask, stream, or game, allowing for uninterrupted productivity.