Why Hackers are Now Targeting Windows 10 Users

With Windows 10 being closer to end-of-life, many consumers are postponing their software updates. This provides hacktivists with an ideal target to exploit, as many of these are running outdated software with known vulnerabilities. With Windows 10 still being installed on hundreds of millions of devices, it has turned out to be a tempting target for hackers due to the high payoff.

Why System Updates are More Important than Ever

Updates provide vital patches that lock down security vulnerabilities before hackers exploit them. Without updates, your device will be vulnerable to various security threats, including ransomware, phishing exploits, keyloggers, and remote access. Disabling updates, as well as putting off updates for a long period, provides easy access for hackers. Updates are your best protection in a world where hackers are extremely aggressive.

“How to Enable Automatic Updates Properly” – An Update

To provide your computer with a high level of security, you should check that it’s set up to take updates automatically. To do this, click on “Settings” and then look for “Update and Security.” Now, look for “Windows Update” and check that it’s running. Click on “Advanced Options” and then check that your computer receives updates automatically.

Risks in Case of Complete Ignoring of Updates

Not updating your device means that it remains vulnerable to malicious attacks that are aimed specifically at Windows 10 users. This means that a hacker can exploit the vulnerability in millions of different devices, making your device a low-hanging fruit that can be easily hacked. This means that you can end up with stolen bank login information, stolen email accounts, corrupted files, and even a complete lockout of your device.

Other Protection Tips to Strengthen Your Security

Besides that, turn on Windows Defender, do not download unknown attachment files, and set a secure password together with Two-Factor Authentication. Unblocking unnecessary software, removing fishy programs, and updating your browser are other ways that help minimize attack vectors.

Keeping Safety on Track Begins with a Simple Check

With many advancements in technology, “Hackers are quickly escalating their abilities, but your defense effort does not have to be.” There’s only one setting you must maintain: “Make sure your Windows 10 computer stays updated. This will protect you from most attacks on your device before hackers attempt to breach it.”

More Like This: Shield Your Mobile Identity: Outsmart SIM Swappers Today
News Source: Pcmag.com

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Make All Accounts Strong with Powerful Passwords

Their attack usually begins with collecting personal data from weak and reused passwords. Make long, unique passwords for every login, and combine letters, symbols, and other numbers. Exclude patterns that are easy to decode, such as birthdays and names. With secure login credentials protecting your accounts, there are fewer ways for hackers to hack you.

Activate Multi-Factor Authentication Everywhere Possible

Turning on Multi-Factor Authentication provides a robust layer of protection between your accounts and burglars. Even if someone has your password, you now provide a second form of authentication that only you can offer. Use application-based authentication in preference to SMS authentication, as individuals with SIM swapper capabilities target text messages.

Protect your mobile carrier account setting.

An important part of many SIM swap attacks involves unauthorized carrier requests. Use a carrier-specific PIN/passcode, which must be entered for any SIM swap. This way, even if a hacker calls your carrier claiming to be you, they will not be able to swap your SIM without being required to complete an additional step.

Less Public Information Entered About Persons

Devious individuals usually pry personal info from social networks for evading identification. Refrain from posting phone number info, addresses, as well as birthdays. Make your social media networks private, as well as be careful when providing info in online forms when asked for unnecessary personal info.

Monitor for Sudden Network Outages

“No Service” is a common precursor of a SIM swap attack. So, if you find your device displaying “No Service” when there’s no reason for this message, you should react immediately. Simply make a phone call to your carrier and ask them to check if there has been a SIM swap request.

Monitor finance and email accounts for abnormal transactions.

Since SIM swaps are common for banking and password resets, look for suspicious login, password reset, or alert notifications. This can make all the difference in preventing a loss of funds and identity.

Utilize Identity Protection Features for Enhanced Safety

“Apps and services that keep tabs on data leaks and/or login anomalies offer an additional layer of protection. These tools alert you in real-time if your data shows up in a data breach, so you can tighten vulnerable areas before a hacker does.” Protecting your mobile identity begins with education and taking proactive measures. With SIMswapping attacks on the increase, taking robust measures now can help you avoid disaster in the future. While you are working on developing a robust security ecosystem with passwords, Multi-Factor Authentication, carrier security, and constant surveillance, you can make it difficult for SIM thieves to take control of your mobile number.

More Like This: Real or AI? The Smartest Ways to Spot Fake Images Fast

News Source: PCmag.com

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Understanding Wake-On-LAN and its hidden everyday convenience

With Wake-on-LAN, a powered-off or sleeping PC can turn on if it receives a special “magic packet” over your network. That means you can start your computer from your phone, another laptop, or even a smart device. Whether you’re wanting to have remote file access or get your PC ready for gaming or work before you walk in, WOL makes it incredibly simple.

Checking Whether Your Computer Supports this Remote Feature

Most modern desktops and laptops support Wake-on-LAN, but it’s always good to check. First, consult your motherboard or network adapter specifications. If your computer is relatively recent, especially with wired Ethernet, support for WOL is all but guaranteed. This magic trick won’t happen without compatible hardware.

Enabling Wake-On-LAN Through Your BIOS Settings

First, you need to activate Wake-on-LAN via your BIOS or UEFI settings. Restart your computer and get into the BIOS menu. Look for settings related to “Wake on LAN,” “Power Management,” or “Resume by LAN.” Turning these on will let your computer listen for the activation signal, even when off or asleep.

Activating Wake-On-LAN Inside Your Operating System

Once you have enabled this in the BIOS, you’ll need to actually turn it on inside Windows or macOS. In Windows, this means opening the Device Manager, finding your network adapter, and enabling features such as “Wake on Magic Packet.” That tells your operating system to accept remote wake requests. Similarly, macOS can be configured to work with remote wake features.

Using Wake-On-LAN Apps to Trigger Magic Packets

Now, the fun part begins: waking your PC remotely. You can use dedicated WOL apps available for Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. These apps send the “magic packet” directly to your PC. Once configured, you tap a button and watch your computer power up from anywhere in your home, like digital sorcery.

Troubleshooting Problems When Wake-On-LAN Doesn’t Work

Sometimes the magic doesn’t happen. If your PC doesn’t wake, check your Ethernet connection-WOL works best with wired networks. Also, confirm your firewall, router port forwarding, and power settings. Disabled fast startup, proper BIOS settings, and correct MAC addresses are key to making WOL run smoothly.

Unlock powerful convenience with this simple network feature. Wake-on-LAN feels like magic, but it’s really just a smart use of your home network. Set it up, and you can power on your computer easily from across the room, across the house, or even across the world. With a tap, your PC springs to life exactly when you need it.

You may love reading: Hidden Wi-Fi Thieves? Here’s How to Spot Every Device

News Source: PCmag.com

The post Wake Your PC Like Magic Using Wake-on-LAN first appeared on Tech News and Updates - Mygeekscore.com.

The complaint, filed in rural King County, is requesting up to $10,000 per violation penalties in violation of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. The office of Paxton characterized Roblox, with more than 150 million monthly players of which 40 per cent are younger than 13, as a breeding ground of predators in which pixel pedophiles and corporate gain override child protection.

Core Allegations

The complaint accuses Roblox of:

• Easy to bypass security: Minors can easily create accounts in the adult mode to gain access to restricted functionality.
• Unceasing damaging information: Games such as Escape to Epstein Island and Public Bathroom Simulator are still operational even after being reported.
• False information about safety: Positioning itself as a family-friendly brand when abuse complaints are ignored.

In 2024, the National Center on Sexual Exploitation designated Roblox as a pedophile-friendly tool that needed stricter regulations. Police have already arrested 24 people in 2024 and another six in 2025 in connection to child abuse initiated on the platform.

Roblox Responds

Roblox dismissed the allegations as misrepresentation and sensational and stated disillusionment at being sued rather than collaborate. The company claims that its policies are more rigid than the majority of platforms and indicates recent changes:

• July 2025: Persona-based age verification to limit unfiltered chat to age over 13.
• November 2024: Prohibited under-13s of Hangouts (islands, virtual clubs, etc.).
• Parental restrictions: Censor chats, lock settings.
• Anti-vigilante policy: Prohibits users who act like trappers to reveal predators.

Although AI moderation is heavily invested, it is claimed that engagement-based model compromises safety.

Broader Context

In January 2025, Paxton had earlier sued Tik Tok on similar issues of child-exposure. The 2023 legislation of Texas will mandate minor protection on social media. Having a $71.76 billion valuation and revenue of 1.35 billion in the third quarter of 2025, Roblox is pressured to fix issues in court, such as the mandatory age verification and limited functionality.

Public Reaction

Plunging into alarm and frustration, parents and users are expressing the word online since the announcement of Paxton. There are numerous appeals to accountability and some to justify the tools of Roblox. Media coverage increased the outrage, and there is speculation of affecting the stock and changing platforms.

This case might lead to wholesale safety reforms in online gaming as regulators put the pressure on them, or reveal gaps in implementation against user-created ecosystems.

Also Read: Leaked Documents Expose Meta’s $16 Billion Haul from Fraud
News Source: Pcmag.com

The post Texas AG Targets Roblox: Platform Prioritizes Profit Over Child Safety, Lawsuit Claims first appeared on Tech News and Updates - Mygeekscore.com.

MAI-Image-1 Creates Photorealistic Images with Speed

The model is created to produce high-quality, photorealistic images—rendering intricate lighting, textures and intricate compositions. Microsoft highlights that MAI-Image-1 provides fast turnaround, enabling creators to iterate faster than most other models out there.

Training Focused on Creative Guidance and Curated Content

To avoid the “AI-looks-the-same” pitfall, Microsoft selected its training sets and involved professional designers and artists in giving feedback. The approach seeks to limit repetitive pattern output and provide usable graphics for actual creative use cases.

Integration Into Microsoft Products Is Imminent, Strategic

MAI-Image-1 is more than a research prototype. Microsoft intends to integrate it into its current platforms like Bing Image Creator and Microsoft Copilot, as part of an overall effort to integrate visual-AI into productivity software and business workflows.

Strategic Goals: Self-Reliance And Competitive Differentiation

By developing its own image-generating model, Microsoft is pushing further towards eliminating reliance on outside collaborators such as OpenAI and solidifying its place in the generative-AI segment. Experts point out that MAI-Image-1’s initial success (top 10 ranking on the LMArena benchmark) indicates Microsoft’s earnest intentions.

Ethical, Computational and Business Considerations Remain Significant

Although the announcement is encouraging, there are issues. Generative image models have the potential to introduce bias, cause copyright headaches, or overload infrastructure with high compute requirements. Microsoft will have to have robust safety guardrails and scalable infrastructure in place as MAI-Image-1 rolls out.With the release of MAI-Image-1, Microsoft has shifted from being a user of generative-AI models to being a creator of them. For creatives, businesses and technology watchers, that means new equipment—and new questions—about how AI is transforming imagery, design and visual processes.
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News Source; Pcmag.com

The post Microsoft’s First Homegrown AI Image Generator Debuts—What You Should Know first appeared on Tech News and Updates - Mygeekscore.com.

But while Tea operated under its user-generated content model, serious infractions regarding breach of data gallons of photos and messages had also emerged for which privacy and control of user-generated content were thrown into scrutiny. With multiple severe breaches of Apple’s App Review Guidelines, including in the areas of content moderation and personal data management and category of unrepentant complaints, the apps were pulled out of the App Store on October 21, 2025.

Major Private and Moderation Failings That Caused App Removal

Apple spokesperson stated that many failures led to the decision: The apps did not give users effective means to report or block someone or to disable the viewing of their information, which amounted to a breach of guideline 1.2. They were in violation of guideline 5.1.2 by allowing or disclosing personal identifying information with insufficient consent or safeguards. They triggered guideline 5.6 from multiple customer reports and negative app reviews regarding developer behavior.

There had been an incident documented in July where 72,000 pictures-such as photo selfies and driver licenses-were illegally released. Changing the dynamics of the application allowed for review postings that had a great chance of exposing personal content or slanderous comments, while its moderation apparatus was grossly inadequate.

What It Means for Regulation in the App Store and Dating Applications

The two apps getting removed sends a mean message from Apple: henceforth, new social or dating apps together with any viral projects have to comply with privacy and content regulations. Apps that allow uploads by their users are now facing scrutiny from delicate on these matters. Developers of similar apps are now expected to have enhanced moderation systems, protection of user information, clear reporting facilities for the users, and an overall transparency.

For end-users, this acts as a reminder that these should be avoided-these are the apps that allow users to rat on other users with full freedom. Just because something is trending doesn’t mean it is safe or can provide for data hygiene.

An Overzealous Cautionary Experience for App Development and Trust

The removal of ‘Tea’ and ‘TeaOnHer’ should awaken the app developers; security is never a second to being viral. True, the app can grow its user base in a period of time 2-3 times faster than the market, but if it steps on toes privacy-wise, authority-wise in the handling of user contents, and compliance-wise on the platform, it stands the real-time risk of getting shut down and punished by none other than Apple for defaming the trust of its ecosystem.

Lesson learnt for developers and users alike; a higher bar for privacy and moderation in 2025 and thereafter.

Also Read: https://mygeekscore.com/apple-reduces-iphone-air-production-amid-weak-demand/

Reference : Apple Pulls Popular Tea Dating Apps Citing Privacy Concerns | PCMag

The post Apple Pulls Viral ‘Tea’ Dating Apps Over Privacy Violations first appeared on Tech News and Updates - Mygeekscore.com.

M5 Chip: Elevated Power and Efficiency

Inside the new MacBook Pro, Apple has built the M5 system-on-chip-a 10-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and powerfully 16-core Neural Engine-which equates for fully accelerated processing-from launching an app to rendering to workloads powered through AI. For the creators and pros, that means smoother video editing, better 3D work, and faster-computing tasks. Early Geekbench leaks report an astonishing one-core score of 4,263 and multi-core of 17,862-an enormous leap from the days of the M4.

Storage, Memory, and Improvement in Workflow

Beyond the pure chip performance, the 2025 MacBook Pro now has much higher-end storage options-up to 4TB SSD-which previously was reserved for Pro/Max models.

Memory bandwidth is increased as well-from 120 GB/s to 153 GB/s, thus allowing better treatment of larger data sets and more intensive workflows. To the professional working with enormous files or making use of on-device AI, these improvements bring actual gains, not just numbers on a benchmark chart.

Battery Life and Real-World Use Holding Up Well

Apple claims that, while increasing the power, the battery life is still the same impressive 24 hours on video playback for the 14-inch M5 model.

You will see fully responsive performance on Safari tabs or coding sessions, work in the creative apps or even doing some casual tasks-by all smooth balance of power and efficiency. If you already own a 2024 MacBook Pro, you may feel the gain less, but for anyone upgrading from earlier generations the difference is tangible.

Same Design, Totally Superior Engine Inside

Change for good, even the form of the 2025 MacBook Pro remains the same. In fact, under the “new superpowers” that these machines possess, if you are a power user-editing video, building apps, crunching data, or loading yourself with AI workloads-the M5 leap is worth it. For general use, it clearly adds future-proofing and smoother performance. However, for someone with a much older MacBook, this upgrade stands out. Put simply, it’s the same shell on the outside but what’s really inside is decisively better.

Also Read: https://mygeekscore.com/apple-m5-vision-pro-vs-m2-unmatched-power-and-performance-showdown/

Source; PCmag.com

The post Apple MacBook Pro 14-Inch (2025) with M5 Chip Reviewed first appeared on Tech News and Updates - Mygeekscore.com.

Customize Your Status

Inform your team by establishing a status. Even when in a meeting, on a break, or even working at home, setting your status using a descriptive emoji will be useful in letting colleagues know of your availability immediately. To change your profile picture, use the bottom-left corner and click your profile picture. Use specific statuses such as busy so as to be clear but do not over use the feature.

Fine-Tune Notifications

Not everything in the channels will require your attention urgently. Click on a channel to customize the notifications, only mention and keywords that are related to you. In case of less important channels, it is better to turn off the notifications so that you can remain focused. This will minimize distraction and make you only alert when you need to work, hence improve productivity.

Plan Channels Effectively.

Organize an overloaded sidebar by putting channels in subfolders. To add folders on your channel list such as Team Projects or Social, you can just click on the three dots adjacent to your existing channel list. Furthermore, make them star high-priority channels to easily access them. This association has made your office clean and productive.

Use @Mentions Wisely

Spamming using the means of @everyone or @channel should also be avoided since these messages inform all members and distract attention. Rather, send a message with a mention to all people who are currently in a channel, i.e. use the within-channel mention, i.e. @here. Better still, label particular people to direct communication. Considerate mentions do not waste the time of your team and maintain the relevance of the conversations.

Quick Chats with Huddles.

Bypass video conferencing equipment when setting up small meetings. The easiest way to start a Slack Huddle is from a DM within the headphones icon, or by hovering over the name of a colleague. Huddles include audio, video, and screen sharing, which is why they are the best solution to rapid catch-ups or brainstorming, without leaving Slack.

Master Slash Commands

You can use the Slack command menu by typing any message box with /. These shortcuts make work easier since one does not have to memorize any complicated code to schedule a reminder or initiate a Huddle. You can easily type desired command and execute it with ease.

Maintain Discussions in strands.

Respond to posts in forums by hovering the cursor over a message and the comment icon. Muji can be used to organize discussions to prevent channel clutter and enable teams to follow conversations that are relevant. They uphold all the features such as mentions and uploading files and everything is intact.

Use DMs for Personal Notes

Send yourself a message to make some quick notes, ideas or reminders. Slack can be used to jot notes temporarily since it is usually available at work hours. It will allow you to add files, voice notes, or type ideas so it will be a flexible personal organization tool.
Following these pieces of advice, you will release the full potential of Slack, which will allow communication to become easier and more efficient to you and your team.

Source: https://www.pcmag.com/explainers/youre-using-slack-wrong-these-8-tips-will-change-everything

The post How to Learn Slack: 8 Ways to Increase Your Productivity first appeared on Tech News and Updates - Mygeekscore.com.

A Bug That’s Bad News

Imagine that you have left your diary in an open room. The vulnerability is CVE-2025-61884, an information disclosure vulnerability that allows hackers to explore confidential information with the help of the Runtime UI component without using a password. It is a grave matter, and already it is being abused. This follows immediately after another headache, CVE-2025-61882, which promoted a ransomware spree only a few months ago. Companies are still cleaning up and this new weakness is making IT departments spend the night awake.

Why the Panic? Hackers Don’t Sleep

A notorious hacking crew has been feasting on unpatched EBS systems. They struck big in August, taking advantage of gaps from July’s Critical Patch Update. Now, with CVE-2025-61884 out there, Oracle is sounding the alarm: If your system’s online, it’s in the crosshairs. Leaked code is floating around, making it easy for other troublemakers to jump in. Security folks are seeing scans pop up, hunting for vulnerable EBS setups.

Patch It, Protect It: Your Next Steps

Oracle is blunt—get that emergency patch on now. One catch: You need the October 2023 update installed first, or it won’t work. Keep an eye out for weird activity, like odd traffic to your Concurrent Processing module. Better yet, tuck your EBS away from the open internet to block hackers’ paths.

This patch is your best shot at staying safe, but you’ve got to move fast. Cybersecurity experts are practically begging companies to act before they end up in the news. Don’t wait—lock down your E-Business Suite today, because the next bug is probably already brewing.

The post Oracle Rolls Out Emergency Patch for Latest E-Business Suite Issue first appeared on Tech News and Updates - Mygeekscore.com.

Background of the TikTok Controversy

TikTok, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, has become a global phenomenon, especially among young users. The app allows users to create and share short-form videos, making it a powerful tool for self-expression and entertainment. However, its rapid rise has been met with increasing scrutiny from the U.S. government. Concerns about the app’s data practices, the potential for Chinese government surveillance, and the app’s connection to Beijing have led to calls for its ban in the U.S.

In August 2020, President Trump signed an executive order demanding that TikTok’s U.S. operations be sold to an American company or face a ban. The order raised alarms among TikTok’s millions of American users and put the company in a delicate position. ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, denied allegations of data misuse and vehemently rejected claims that the Chinese government had access to TikTok’s data. However, the Trump administration continued to push for a sale of the app’s U.S. operations.

The Role of President Xi and China’s Interests

China’s President Xi Jinping has consistently defended the operations of Chinese tech companies, including ByteDance. China’s government has maintained that it does not exert control over companies in the same way that Western governments might expect. However, the government has also been known to leverage its influence over domestic corporations, raising fears among critics about the potential for government access to user data.

The discussions between Trump and Xi come amid heightened tensions between the two countries. Trade disputes, tariffs, and accusations of intellectual property theft have defined much of the relationship between the U.S. and China. The TikTok issue is just the latest in a series of diplomatic confrontations that highlight the broader struggle for technological supremacy between the two nations.

By speaking directly to Xi, Trump is signaling the importance of the issue. The finalization of a deal on TikTok could have significant implications not only for the app’s future but also for the broader U.S.-China relationship.

The Deal: Microsoft, Oracle, and Walmart

As the deadline for resolving the TikTok issue neared, a number of American companies expressed interest in acquiring TikTok’s U.S. operations. Among the front-runners were Microsoft and Oracle, two major tech firms with strong ties to the U.S. government. Microsoft was initially seen as the preferred bidder, offering a deal that would see it purchase TikTok’s U.S. operations, ensuring that all American data would be stored on U.S. soil.

In addition to Microsoft, Oracle also entered the bidding war. Unlike Microsoft, Oracle’s bid was seen as more aligned with Trump’s administration, with some reports suggesting that Oracle had the backing of key U.S. political figures. Oracle proposed that it would provide the necessary security assurances and would manage TikTok’s data operations, ensuring compliance with U.S. regulations.

Walmart, the retail giant, was also rumored to be interested in participating in the deal. Although it was unclear whether Walmart would take a leading role or serve as a strategic partner to one of the tech companies, the inclusion of Walmart in the talks reflected the broader economic stakes involved. The deal could potentially reshape the landscape of digital commerce and entertainment, allowing companies like Walmart to tap into TikTok’s massive user base for retail and advertising opportunities.

Trump’s Involvement and National Security Concerns

President Trump has made it clear that the decision to approve a deal is ultimately his to make, and he has been vocal about his concerns over TikTok’s data practices. He has repeatedly expressed skepticism about the idea of a Chinese-owned app storing sensitive U.S. user data, especially in light of national security threats and the ongoing trade war.

Trump has indicated that he would approve a deal only if it sufficiently addresses U.S. concerns regarding data privacy and security. The U.S. government is particularly concerned about the possibility that TikTok could be used by the Chinese government to collect data on American citizens, which could then be used for intelligence or propaganda purposes.

While the talks between Trump and Xi were initially centered on the sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations, the two leaders also discussed the broader strategic implications. The decision to allow TikTok to continue operating in the U.S. without a forced sale could be seen as a concession in the ongoing trade dispute between the two nations. On the other hand, the success of the deal would give Trump a victory in the eyes of his supporters, showing that he was able to address the concerns of national security while also striking a deal that appeased both American business interests and China.

A Path Forward for TikTok

For now, the TikTok situation remains fluid. While President Trump has signaled his willingness to finalize the deal, there are still many legal and regulatory hurdles to overcome. The U.S. government will need to ensure that any agreement made with a U.S.-based company adequately addresses national security concerns. TikTok, for its part, will need to ensure that the deal is structured in a way that safeguards its global operations and user base.

It remains unclear whether the proposed solutions, such as storing all U.S. user data on American soil or placing Oracle in charge of security, will be sufficient to satisfy both U.S. lawmakers and the Chinese government. There is also the possibility that the deal could face legal challenges, with opponents arguing that the sale of TikTok could set a troubling precedent for how U.S. tech companies are forced to sell their operations in other countries due to national security concerns.

Conclusion

The phone call between President Trump and President Xi Jinping is a significant step in the ongoing efforts to resolve the TikTok saga. As the two leaders continue their discussions, the future of the app remains uncertain. A deal could represent a win for both countries Trump could claim victory in protecting American data while allowing TikTok to continue operating, and China could maintain control over one of its most successful tech exports. However, many questions remain about the details of such a deal and whether it will be enough to quell the concerns of U.S. lawmakers and national security experts.

The post Trump Speaks with China’s Xi to Finalize TikTok Deal first appeared on Tech News and Updates - Mygeekscore.com.