Latest news with #securityupdate
Forbes
22-05-2025
- Forbes
Google Chrome Users Told To Wait 7 Days For Urgent Security Update
This new Google security update has only been rolled out to some users. Like most updates concerning high-severity security vulnerabilities, time is of the essence. It's why I have long urged Chrome users not to wait until any such update is eventually rolled out to them and to kickstart the process immediately instead. But now the odd decision has been taken to issue the latest Google Chrome security update on an early release basis. A what now? What this means is that the update will only roll out to 'a small percentage of users,' while the rest of us, the 3 billion of us, have to wait a week to get the same level of protection against attackers. Here's what you need to know and do. Reporting on Google Chrome security updates is usually pretty straightforward: here are the vulnerabilities and their impact, here is the security update, install it. This is no ordinary Google Chrome update, though; it's what Google refers to as an 'Early Stable Update' instead. The May 21 announcement appears fairly standard, in that it addresses several Chrome security vulnerabilities, five of which have Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures database entries, ranging from low to high severity. But that's where the normality ends. The Google Chrome 137.0.7151.40/.41 for Windows and Mac users is actually only available for 'a small percentage of users,' according to Prudhvi Kumar Bommana, part of the Chrome team at Google, 'as part of our early stable release' program. What. The. Flipping. Heck? Despite CVE-2025-5063, being a high-severity Google Chrome security restriction bypass vulnerability, which, if successfully exploited could lead to remote code execution, the majority of Chrome users are being told they need to wait another week before getting protected. According to a 2022 Google announcement, the early stable version release of updates was introduced to 'monitor the release before it rolls out to all of our users.' Monitor for what, exactly? What Google described as any 'showstopping issue,' by which I assume they mean bugs. The idea being that any discovered with a serious impact can then be addressed 'while the impact is relatively small.' Which is all well and good as nobody likes an update that barfs. Apart from the high-severity vulnerability that exists and all Chrome users are potentially vulnerable to exploitation until such a time, to be precise, when the rest of us can receive protection. I have reached out to Google for an explanation of why the early release was decided necessary in this case rather than an immediate global release. I also tried to kickstart the update using the Help|About Google Chrome menu option, but this wasn't playing ball, and the 137 update was not available to me.
Geeky Gadgets
21-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Urgent Security Update for Your Samsung Galaxy: Install NOW!
Samsung has rolled out a critical security update for its Galaxy smartphones, focusing on enhancing the capabilities of the Auto Blocker module. This update is designed to provide advanced protection against unauthorized access, malware, and other vulnerabilities, addressing the growing challenges of today's digital landscape. With improved functionality and customizable features, this update represents a significant enhancement in safeguarding your device and personal data. The video below from Sakitech gives us more details on the update. Watch this video on YouTube. Understanding the Auto Blocker Module The Auto Blocker module is an integrated security feature that acts as a protective barrier against various digital threats. The latest update, version 1.2.02.1, is a compact 6 MB download but delivers impactful improvements. Its primary purpose is to prevent unauthorized access and block malicious activities, making sure your smartphone remains secure in an increasingly interconnected world. This module operates in the background, providing continuous protection without disrupting your daily use. By addressing vulnerabilities and proactively blocking potential threats, the Auto Blocker module reinforces the overall security framework of your Galaxy device. Key Features of the Updated Auto Blocker The updated Auto Blocker module introduces several advanced features designed to protect your device from a wide range of risks. These enhancements include: Blocking Apps from Unauthorized Sources: This feature prevents the installation of apps from unverified or unofficial sources, significantly reducing the risk of malware infiltrating your device. This feature prevents the installation of apps from unverified or unofficial sources, significantly reducing the risk of malware infiltrating your device. USB Command Blocking: Unauthorized commands sent via USB are a common tactic in cyberattacks. This feature ensures such commands are automatically blocked, protecting your device from potential exploitation. Unauthorized commands sent via USB are a common tactic in cyberattacks. This feature ensures such commands are automatically blocked, protecting your device from potential exploitation. Malware Image Prevention: Malicious images sent through text messages can exploit vulnerabilities in your device. The updated module actively blocks these images, safeguarding your data and privacy. Malicious images sent through text messages can exploit vulnerabilities in your device. The updated module actively blocks these images, safeguarding your data and privacy. Software Update Restrictions: Only official updates are allowed, minimizing the risk of tampered or harmful software being installed on your device. These features work in unison to provide comprehensive protection, whether you use your smartphone for personal activities, professional tasks, or both. By addressing multiple attack vectors, the Auto Blocker module ensures your device remains secure against evolving threats. Customizable Security for Every User One of the most notable aspects of this update is its flexibility, allowing users to customize the Auto Blocker module to suit their specific needs. You can enable or disable certain protections based on how you use your device, making sure the security settings align with your preferences and usage patterns. For instance, if you frequently download apps from trusted sources, you can adjust the settings to focus on other security aspects. Any changes to these settings require authentication via fingerprint or PIN, making sure that only authorized users can modify the security parameters. This level of customization makes the Auto Blocker module suitable for a diverse range of users, from casual smartphone owners to professionals handling sensitive data. Who Benefits Most from the Auto Blocker? While the Auto Blocker module is an optional feature, it is highly recommended for anyone who prioritizes security. Users who rely on their Galaxy smartphones for work, store sensitive information, or frequently download apps will find this feature particularly beneficial. Even for everyday users, the module offers valuable safeguards against common threats such as malware, phishing attempts, and unauthorized access. By allowing the Auto Blocker module, you add an essential layer of protection to your device, making sure peace of mind in an increasingly complex digital environment. Steps to Update the Auto Blocker Module Keeping the Auto Blocker module updated is essential to ensure your device benefits from the latest security enhancements. Follow these simple steps to update the module: Open the Galaxy Store on your smartphone. Search for the Auto Blocker module and check for available updates. Download and install the latest version (1.2.02.1). By regularly updating the module, you ensure your device remains protected against emerging threats and vulnerabilities. Enhanced Security for a Safer Digital Experience Samsung's latest security update for Galaxy smartphones underscores the importance of proactive protection in today's digital age. The enhanced Auto Blocker module, with its advanced features and customizable options, provides robust safeguards tailored to your needs. Whether you are a casual user or a professional managing sensitive data, this update offers a practical and effective solution to enhance your device's security. Take a moment to update your phone today and enjoy the confidence that comes with knowing your smartphone is equipped to handle modern security challenges. Here are more guides from our previous articles and guides related to Samsung Galaxy security update that you may find helpful. Source & Image Credit: sakitech Filed Under: Android News, Mobile Phone News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Forbes
19-05-2025
- Forbes
Microsoft Confirms Emergency Update For Windows Users
Emergency update confirmed for Windows users. Getty Images Microsoft has just confirmed an emergency update for Windows 10, after an increasing number of users reported May's mandatory security update breaking Windows. Affected users have been hit with BitLocker Recovery screens and even dreaded Blue Screens of Death after downloading and trying to install the latest critical update. 'Windows 10 might repeatedly display the BitLocker recovery screen at startup,' the company warned, confirming an out of bounds update via Microsoft's Update Catalog. The issue affects users 'on devices with Intel Trusted Execution Technology (TXT) enabled on 10th generation or later Intel vPro processors.' Those who have not yet deployed May's update should install the out of bounds update instead. For those who have tried to install the update and are now stuck, Microsoft says: Windows Latest was first to flag the issue, reporting that 'the KB5058379 install starts, but ends up at 'Enter the recovery key to get going again (Keyboard layout: US)' screen, and there's a text field to add the recovery key. In some cases, there's a BSOD as well.' Microsoft has again warned Windows users that its support team 'doesn't have the ability to retrieve, provide, or recreate a lost BitLocker recovery key,' but can use this link to find your BitLocker recovery key.' This issue and fix primarily applies to enterprise users, as 'consumer devices typically do not use Intel vPro processors and are less likely to be impacted by this issue.' May is proving an interesting month for the Windows-maker, with the wider release of its controversial Recall photographic memory for Copilot+ owners and the continuing drive to push 700 million Windows 10 users to upgrade ahead of October's deadline.
Yahoo
06-05-2025
- Yahoo
Why Android users should care more about monthly security updates
We store a massive amount of personal data on our phones. Whether you have a flagship or midrange device, your email, personal photos, credit cards, banking info, and more are accessible from your pocket. While most people take care of their phones physically, they may not pay the same care to keeping their phones updated. A notification letting you know there's an update may go ignored because it takes too much time or gets in the way of what you're doing. Keeping your phone updated makes sure the sensitive data stored on it is kept safe from digital threats. Here's why you shouldn't ignore that update notification and update your phone as soon as you see it. What is a monthly security update? A Google Pixel on the "Checking for update" screen that appears before installing a new Android version Think of Android as the foundation of your phone's house. While it's solid, over time it develops cracks and vulnerabilities that can be used by animals and nature to get in. To fix these cracks, you need to patch them to keep your foundation solid and invulnerable. You aren't changing anything major about the cosmetics of the house, only making sure it's in good structural shape. The patches for this theoretical house are security patches. These monthly patches differ from major OS upgrades or quarterly feature drops that Google Pixel devices receive. Major OS upgrades change how your phone works. It may change things visually, alter how you interact with your phone, add new features, or modify existing features. These updates usually happen once a year, but it seems like they'll happen more frequently going forward. Security updates are less prominent. They fix vulnerabilities behind the scenes while affecting the user experience as little as possible, if at all. They are issued frequently to keep up with new vulnerabilities that are discovered and patch them quickly. Google is in charge of vulnerabilities related to Android, while chip manufacturers are in charge of vulnerabilities in their hardware. Google rounds up these vulnerabilities and gives them to device OEMs. The OEMs are then responsible for releasing the update that contains these fixes. The OEMs may need to collaborate with carriers to make sure the updates don't interrupt their service. Threats are omnipresent A hand holding a phone with camera, security, and battery icons around it with a warning sign. While our operating systems are largely secure, vulnerabilities are discovered in them all the time. Security researchers and malicious actors look for and find these weak points, which can become doorways to detrimental actions. Malware : Malware is malicious software that allows bad actors to take over your phone in some way. They can steal your information, lock your phone until you pay a ransom, or use your phone's resources to do something nefarious without your knowledge. Data Theft : Some exploits allow bad actors to steal sensitive information stored on your phone, such as passwords, banking information, photos, contacts, and more. Spying : Exploits may allow hackers to access your microphone or camera without your knowledge or permission. Device Takeover: In severe cases, vulnerabilities may allow bad actors to take over your phone and all its functions. The scary part about these vulnerabilities is that hackers don't care who they hurt. They create their hacks, and often automate them, so that they hit as many devices as possible. Those who haven't updated their devices to block these attacks are at risk, which is why it's important to keep your device up to date. Why monthly updates are so important A man's hand holding a Pixel 6 showing an update in progress with a pillow in the background that has pictures of pink watermelon slices on it. Even though threats exist, why is it important to update your device monthly? There are situations in which hackers find exploits before a patch is issued. These are called "zero-day" exploits and are leveraged by hackers quickly, since devices don't have protection against them. Google and its partners release a patch as soon as possible, which is released in the monthly update. By installing the update, you minimize the time your phone is exposed to this exploit and ensure your data is as safe as possible. If you ignore these updates, you leave your phone open to more exploits for longer, making it more vulnerable to more threats with each missed update. Leaving your data unprotected is almost asking for it to be stolen, so it's crucial to stop ignoring updates and install them as soon as they appear. There are no excuses Many people may feel that stopping what they're doing to wait for an update to install every month is annoying and tedious. However, these excuses are not worth the risk of having your data stolen. The update takes too long or makes my phone restart Monthly security patches are, in most cases, smaller, quicker, and easier to install than OS updates or feature drops. While your phone must be restarted to install them, keeping your data safe is worth it. You can set updates to install overnight when you're not using your phone, so it's set when you wake up. This can minimize the disturbance when using your device and keep you safe at the same time It won't happen to me This is dangerous thinking that may end up being untrue. While you may think you're unimportant to hackers, they are indifferent to who they hack. All they care about is hacking as many devices as quickly as possible, so they don't care how important or unimportant you think you are. Doesn't my VPN or antivirus app protect me? VPNs protect others from seeing what you're doing on your phone. Antivirus apps are great for scanning downloaded files and apps to make sure they are free from malware. Neither of these solutions fixes or blocks issues with the underlying operating system that they operate within. I don't notice a difference Good, that's the point. These updates should not change how your phone works and should only fix things in the background, allowing you to keep using your device as normal. Your digital life is worth protecting Since smartphones store personal information about your life, it's important to keep it protected. As soon as you see an update notification, take time to install it. You can also manually check for updates by going to Settings > System > System Update if you want to be proactive. There are Android settings you can change to make your phone more secure.
