VPN trouble: Microsoft’s April security update is causing some VPN connections to fail on Windows 11 (versions 23H2, 22H2 and 21H2) and Windows 10 (versions 22H2 and 21H2). No patch date announced yet, so beware: Your IP address and location could be exposed. I’ll let you know when they fix this.
Update your PC! Patch Tuesday fixes 98 flaws
Keeping your devices updated is important. Developers release patches and fixes that improve your phone or computer’s performance and protect it against the latest threats.
Here’s a surprise for iPhone users — you can get the latest updates early if you take this simple step. Tap or click here to learn how to stay ahead of the pack.
Many Big Tech companies gather updates and release them on the second Tuesday of every month, known as Patch Tuesday. Microsoft just had its first one for 2023, and it’s a big one. Here’s what it addresses and how to get the update.
Zero-day
Microsoft describes a zero-day vulnerability as “a flaw in software for which no official patch or security update has been released.” This week the tech giant revealed fixes for one of these flaws, along with 98 others (11 of which are labeled as critical).
The zero-day flaw, CVE-2023-21674, can be exploited by an attacker to gain system privileges. The hacker can use these privileges to steal data, run commands or deploy malware.
The 11 critical fixes involve more elevation privileges, security bypasses and remote code execution, which hackers can use to take over your system. Here’s the list:
- CVE-2023-21743
- CVE-2023-21551
- CVE-2023-21730
- CVE-2023-21556
- CVE-2023-21555
- CVE-2023-21543
- CVE-2023-21546
- CVE-2023-21546
- CVE-2023-21679
- CVE-2023-21548
- CVE-2023-21535
The remaining vulnerabilities involve information disclosure, denial of service and spoofing.
RELATED: Looking for something to watch? This mistake puts your computer at risk
Update your Windows PC now
Updating Windows gets you the latest fixes and security improvements, helping your PC run more efficiently while keeping up its defenses.
Have an older iPhone? Install this update now to block hackers
Smartphones have been under attack by hackers all year. We recently told you about an Android threat that would let anyone unlock it to do who knows what. Tap or click here for details and how to patch the issue.
Now it’s Apple’s turn. A zero-day flaw has been discovered in older Apple devices that would allow malicious websites to perform nefarious tasks in the background. The good news is there is now a fix for the issue.
Have this phone? Running your battery to zero could disable a feature you use most
Mobile phones are our lifeline to the outside world and loved ones. With many things dependent on them, most of us can’t afford the struggles when the battery dies. But when it does happen, a quick recharge will have you texting in no time.
More printer issues for Windows? Microsoft releases another fix
This year hasn’t been the best time for Microsoft’s Windows and printer drivers. On several occasions, the company had to release a patch or fix for vulnerabilities.
Its troubles don’t seem to be over because Microsoft rolled out another quick fix to correct pesky printer software. But you don’t need to stress about hackers exploiting the flaw. The update isn’t security-related, but more maintenance.
Samsung flaw lets anyone sign in with their fingerprint
Think about all the important information kept on your smartphone. Things like work and personal emails, logins for bank accounts, private photos and so much more can be found on your device.
That’s why it’s crucial to keep them protected the best way possible. You can use a PIN code, facial ID or fingerprint to keep your phone locked. But which provides the best security? Tap or click here to find out.
Android warning: Update now to avoid a serious security flaw
There are tons of reasons to use Android devices. Any Android fan can tell you that having an open-source operating system is a better choice for them over the other, more restrictive options.
That open-source platform means you not only have more app options, but you can also play amateur developer with your device. There are tons of third-party apps available for Android that aren’t available for iOS devices due to the security restrictions — and many more options for customizing your device. Tap or click here to see Android 11 features we’re most excited about.
Android update fixes major security flaws
If you’ve noticed that your phone has an issue with pop-ups or is heating up unexpectedly, you should be concerned that it has contracted a virus. Issues with app-based threats, cryptojacking, phishing, and malvertising are especially prevalent on Android devices, which are open-source and aren’t as locked down as iPhones are.