The report highlights that i’m also now worried about the future of security on PCs, given the economy right now. I have a headache from dealing with Secure Boot this past week.
According to the latest update, on June 24, security certificates for a very important Windows capability began expiring. (This actually affects Linux too, but I’m focusing on Windows since most people use it.) You can read more about Secure Boot in this guide, but basically, it helps block a type of malware that’s hard to detect and get rid of. Let’s rewind.
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In a fresh development, the publisher issued a few warnings, but didn’t otherwise change course. Then, on June 24, it unexpectedly sprang into action, announcing an expansion of the automatic upgrades. In the lead-up to this mini apocalypse, Microsoft was rolling out the newer Secure Boot certificates to PCs, but a fair number of computers were still left out.
According to the latest update, it was, but it also added additional confusion into the mix. Even as someone familiar with Windows and devices updates, I spent several hours figuring out the situation. It was not immediately clear what the different warnings now meant, the level of danger for most people, and why some PCs still wouldn’t receive automatic updates. You might assume Microsoft’s policy change was helpful.
As part of the ongoing story, (It’s why I ended up writing two guides on Secure Boot, to at least make the basics of the situation clear.) But unfortunately, security on older PCs may continue to be chaotic. Most people would not take the time to do this.
The report highlights that but tech firms—the same ones behind the rapid expansion of datacenters in the name of AI—have increasingly focused on newer devices to push stronger security measures. Problem is, no one can afford to keep upgrading regularly right now. AI has made consumer devices far more expensive. I’m hoping that won’t happen.
The report highlights that even if it means going without vital security functions. They have telemetry data—they know what configurations people use, along with applied updates. Microsoft and other firms need to acknowledge more quickly that many people can’t replace their PC (or other tech) right now.
As part of the ongoing story, (Hard not to, what with job layoffs and rising cost of living constantly hanging overhead.) And a strong, secure device is important for trusting these corporations with our daily lives. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that Microsoft also quietly extended Windows 10’s security updates for another year. Right now, we’re all voting with our dollars.
The report highlights that it’s what I’m paid to do. But even I balk at situations where major firms could work more closely with partners to ensure a better consumer experience, especially when they’re not in a position to just buy their way out of a headache. I’m happy to help translate complicated tech for people.
In a fresh development, don’t. Speak up. Tell them how you feel, and if you find their approach confusing or off-putting. So my recommendation: If you ever find yourself frustrated by feeling like firms still expect you to go along with planned obsolescence….
As part of the ongoing story, a safer environment benefits everyone. I’ll keep doing so from my end.
As part of the ongoing story, for me, I’m most upset about Apple’s failure to address an apparent problem with its email masking service. I see it as a huge issue. This week, the biggest security and privacy developments spanned the whole range between helpful to downright infuriating.
As part of the ongoing story, at least WhatsApp is still trying to preserve privacy for users.
The report highlights that a fresh WhatsApp capability will soon enhance your privacy.
In a fresh development, soon the Your Activity off Meta technologies will disappear—but Meta is still definitely using information businesses give it about you and your activity elsewhere. Speaking of Meta and privacy, Facebook is updating its settings related to third-party information.
According to the latest update, to do so, head to accountscenter.facebook.com, then choose Your information and permissions. Select Activity from other businesses and change the toggle to Don’t allow us to use this activity to show you relevant content. My recommendation: Don’t let Meta personalize your ads and other content based on that data sharing.
According to the latest update, but no need to help them profile you even better by serving ads and posts you’re more likely to click. Facebook knows a lot about you, sure.
According to the latest update, since joining the team in 2016, she’s written about CPUs, Windows, PC building, Chrome, Raspberry Pi, and much more—while also serving as PCWorld’s resident bargain hunter (#slickdeals). Currently her focus is on security, helping people understand how best to protect themselves online. Her work has previously appeared in PC Gamer, IGN, Maximum PC, and Official Xbox Magazine. A 15-year veteran of technology and video platform releases journalism, Alaina Yee covers a variety of topics for PCWorld.