Author Archives: Kristin Willis

Firefox Browser got Quite the Update for Android

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Available today in Europe, and available in the U.S. on the 27th, Mozilla announced an upgraded Firefox Android browser. Called the Firefox Daylight, because it begins a fresh new start for Android users, Mozilla wanted to deliver a better experience within the browser.

According to CNet, few parts of the Firefox browser improvements include:

  • “Daylight opens web pages about 10% faster than the previous version. It’s also more responsive when you’re scrolling or tapping.
  • It has new privacy muscle in the form of Mozilla’s Enhanced Tracking Protection, designed to block advertisers and publishers from logging your online behavior.
  • The new version features Tab collections that lets you organize sets of tabs into a named group that you can open in bulk later.
  • Daylight adds Mozilla’s list of recommended extensions, which are add-ons that let you customize the browser, making it easier to find ones that are safe and useful.”

Other features include a light and dark theme option, so users can use what works best for them.

Blink

Google’s mobile engine is named Blink, while Mozilla’s engine is called GeckoView. This gives Mozilla an advantage, should there be any security problems with Blink. Thankfully, Firefox Daylight will not be affected in the least.

This whole update was a huge effort to increase user numbers. In 2017, Mozilla released Firefox Quantum. However, their numbers decreased from 250 million to 208 million since, losing users to Google Chrome. Here’s to hoping this new mobile browser helps.

For inquiries about mobile browsers, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Denver Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Denver, CO please call or text the local office at (720) 441-6460.

Hackers Believe to Steal Ad Revenue on iOS

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It’s no known secret that hackers are finding any way possible to insert malicious code to invade privacy and steal important information from potential victims. Synk, a software security business, shared a Chinese mobile ad vulnerability in iOS, implicating they were committing fraud through ads. They stated the following:

“We have identified that mintegral iOS SDK versions 5.5.1 and above contain malicious functionality which leads to information leakage. In simple terms the SDK is spying on user link clicking, and network activity within the affected apps. The spying occurs even if the SDK was not enabled by the developer or the ad mediation platform.”

Source: Synk Press Kit

The statements show that SDK makes iOS think that a different ad is being clicked on, therefore the ad revenue is being sent elsewhere instead of the actual business of the ad. The Chinese mobile ad, called Mintegral has stated it has been cooperating with Apple, while maintaining their innocence in the attack to steal information and ad revenue.

This vicious intended code seems to only have been seen on iOS and not on Android just yet. The first code was seen over a year ago, in July 2019.

For inquiries about vulnerabilities, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Goodyear Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Goodyear, Arizona please call or text the local office at (623) 295-2645.

Microsoft Edge May Slow Computer Down

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If you’re noticing your computer slowing down, the possible reason behind it may be the Microsoft Edge browser.

A Microsoft Community user shared an issue, stating, “I updated my windows 10 pro using KB:4559309. Since then my computer performance has absolutely tanked. my startup time is probably triple, loading any window has a few second delay. I attempted to uninstall the update however windows tells me that it is required and cannot be removed.”

Its said that the Edge browser team already knows about this issue and is currently fixing it. They also are requesting feedback on issues such as this by going to the Feedback Hub in the Start Menu. An advisor on the thread encourages users to uninstall the KB 4559309 update to alleviate the issue.

For computer-related inquiries, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Aurora Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Aurora, Colorado, please call or text the local office at (720) 441-6460.

Windows 10 1709 Service Extension

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First stated back in January that service on version 1709 of Windows 10 was to end in April of 2020, the release has now been extended. And with the pandemic still around, this helps many Microsoft users.

Microsoft Docs, which share important information on servicing their updates, lengthened their end of service for 1709 from April to October. According to their records, they say:

“Windows 10, version 1709 will reach the end of servicing on October 13, 2020 April 14, 2020. This applies to the following editions* of Windows 10 released in October of 2018:

  • Windows 10 Education, version 1709
  • Windows 10 Enterprise, version 1709
  • Windows 10 IoT Enterprise, version 1709

These editions will no longer receive security updates after October 13, 2020 April 14, 2020. Please go here for the latest information. Customers who contact Microsoft Support after this date will be directed to update their device to the latest version of Windows 10 to remain supported.”

This particular date also includes, “SharePoint Server 2010, SharePoint Foundation 2010, and Project Server 2010.” Version 1809’s end of service date was May 12th of 2020. However, the final update has been extended to November 10th.

For help troubleshooting PC issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Aurora Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Aurora, CO, please call the local office at (720) 441-6460.

New Tool Removes Unwanted Apps

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When Windows 10 installs on PCs, it includes multiple pre-installed apps. These apps cannot be uninstalled – that is until now.

A third-party app called Bloatbox gives users the option of removing those unwanted apps. At first, this app started off as a small addition to the app Spydish. Then it became its own separate app.

According to the Bloatbox repository, the developer Belim states, “Since I didn’t want to bloat Spydish unnecessarily (those who know me know that I am a friend of small apps and lean code), I have now made this available as a standalone app. With the upcoming Spydish release it can be started from within Spydish.”

Some of the apps on Windows 10 that are normally pre-installed are the Your Phone app, Maps, and Photos. These apps don’t take up too much space on the hard drive, so uninstalling them won’t make much of a difference. However, if desired, use Bloatbox.

With all that said, there is a possibility that removing apps that cannot be uninstalled could lead to computer troubles. Be sure to research all options beforehand.

For inquiries with Microsoft installations, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Frisco Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Frisco, TX please call or text the local office at (469) 299-9005.

Emotet Malware is Back

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The infamous Emotet malware has caused trouble again, according to researcher sources.

Back in 2014, Emotet was founded as a banking trojan, deciding on third party malware after using their own. This produced a handful of malicious spamming and stealing personal information.

Tech Radar states on their blog, “In May of last year, Proofpoint researchers observed Emotet delivering third-party payloads including Qbot, The Trick, IcedID and Gootkit. The malware also now loads modules for spamming, credential stealing, email harvesting and spreading via local networks.”

Last week, researchers found an astounding 250,000 e-mails sent out by Emotet after 5 months of inactivity. These e-mails include links with Microsoft Word and will download and install malware to the computer. In turn, hackers can receive any and all data they want.

Companies are the biggest target for Emotet, and come with a hefty problem if not combated with anti-virus software. It’s always best to remember not to open e-mails or attachments that are unknown to the user.

*Update 7/21 – A new scam for a Google Chrome update is circulating around the world, zoning in on multiple organizations. These e-mail scams will download malware if the links are clicked on. Keep an eye out.

For help with computer issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Mesa Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Mesa, AZ please call the local office at (480) 240-2950.

Google Disables Windows Fix for Chrome

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The ever popular Google Chrome web browser is making news this week, and not necessarily in the best way.

According to sources, Chrome’s RAM usage had become an annoyance to users. If they had opened too many tabs on the browser, it took a toll on the computer’s performance. This was widely recognized as an issue, so much that Windows took it upon themselves to fix the RAM issue. The Segment Heap feature came out in the Windows 10 May 2020 update.

But why would Google disable a fix like this? On the Chromium Bugs website, it states that Chrome acquired a “Performance regression with Windows segment heap”. So, exchanging one fix for another was Google’s plan. So when the new Chrome update comes out in August, the Segment Heap feature will be disabled.

Currently, Google is running its own tests to find solutions to the RAM issues, but until then we may have to deal with the possibility of declining performances on our PC.

If you are needing help with computer issues, please give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities.  This blog post is brought to you from our staff at the Tucson Computer Repair Service. If you need computer repair in Tucson, AZ, please call the local office at (520) 526-9940.

New Apple App in the Works in Windows 10

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Rumors have spread of Apple working on a new app that will be showing up on Windows 10 in the near future.

Apple apps have shown up in Windows 10 prior to this, such as iTunes (now known as Apple Music) so it’s no huge surprising news. The enticing curiosity behind it, however, is what the app is going to be.

No one knows what it will be. Back in November 2019, though, Apple was looking to hiring workers for the next, updated media app for Windows. So it’s a guess from many Apple users that the new app in the works is specifically for that prior job listing.

I suppose we’ll find out when it gets released.

For help with any MacOS or Windows 10 issues, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Denver Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Denver, CO please call or text the local office at (720) 441-6460.

Kernel Data Protection on Windows 10

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When Windows users see the word ‘protection’ when it comes to their operating system, they recognize a positive outcome. So when Kernel Data Protection was introduced last week, Windows Insiders users were excited.

But what exactly is Kernel Data Protection?

According to Microsoft Security, “Kernel Data Protection (KDP) is a new technology that prevents data corruption attacks by protecting parts of the Windows kernel and drivers through virtualization-based security (VBS). KDP is a set of APIs that provide the ability to mark some kernel memory as read-only, preventing attackers from ever modifying protected memory.”

This new security feature will effectively reduce hackers’ ability to find ways around corrupting different parts of the OS and drivers. And with how malicious attacks are getting, PC’s are in great need of the best security possible.

Kernel Data Protection is available and ready in the Windows 10 Insiders Build, and is seeming to be quite a big deal in the security world.

If you are needing assistance with any Microsoft issues, please give us a call at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities.  This blog post is brought to you from our staff at the Arlington Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Arlington, TX please call the local office at (817) 756-6008. 

Intel Reveals Thunderbolt 4 Port

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With technology modernizing, companies are working hard to keep PC and Macs innovative, up-to-date, and useful for everyone. Yesterday, Intel announced their upcoming universal cable, called the Thunderbolt 4.

This new connectivity port will allow a plethora of benefits, capable of amplifying the “minimum performance requirements, expanded capabilities and USB4 specification compliance,” according to the Intel Newsroom. It also features up to four port docks, giving quite the advantage for those requiring multiple ports for work purposes.

Jason Ziller, the general manager of the Client Connectivity Division of Intel, stated that, “the arrival of Thunderbolt 4 underscores how Intel is advancing the PC ecosystem toward truly universal connectivity solutions.”

They also shared the Thunderbolt 4 controller 8000 series, which would add a Thunderbolt 3 PC collaboration. The experience of using Intel’s ports is expected to receive positive feedback due to a rise in productivity.

Apple and Intel partnered together years ago, establishing the Thunderbolt to bring additional perks. So if you have a Mac, there’s a good chance you’ll find an Intel port. According to The Verge, “Apple is moving away from Intel’s chipsets in favor of its new, custom-designed ARM chips — but the company is promising that it’ll still support Intel’s Thunderbolt USB-C connectivity standard on new Apple silicon computers, despite the lack of Intel processors.”

In July 2020, Intel announces the Thunderbolt 4 controller 8000 series, which includes JHL8540 and JHL8340 host controllers for computer makers and JHL8440 device controller for accessory makers. Thunderbolt 4 developer kits and certification testing are available. (Credit: Intel Corporation)
Other benefits of Intel’s Thunderbolt 4 involve:
  • Thunderbolt Security protection
  • 2X minimum video requirements of Thunderbolt 3
  • PC charging on one computer port
  • and more!

At this time, the developer kits and testing for certification are accessible. And developers are excited about it.

For computer-related inquiries, call us at 1-800-620-5285.  Karls Technology is a nationwide computer service company with offices in many major cities. This blog post was brought to you from our staff at the Aurora Computer Repair Service, if you need computer repair in Aurora, Colorado, please call or text the local office at (720) 441-6460.