GitHub Comments Abused to Spread Malware in Fake Microsoft Repositories

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McAfee cybersecurity researchers have discovered a malicious scheme exploiting GitHub’s comment section, where threat actors host malware and disguise download links as legitimate Microsoft repositories. 

This incident reminds me of a similar event that occurred in June 2027, during which Russian hackers exploited the comment section of Britney Spears’ Instagram profile to host malware.

According to McAfee, cybercriminals have been exploiting GitHub’s file upload logic since February 2024 to host and distribute malware through automatically generated download links containing the repository owner’s name and ownership details.

These repositories contain password-stealing malware disguised as seemingly innocuous files.  More troubling, the repositories also included comments with download links crafted to mimic official Microsoft software repository URLs.

GitHub Comments Abused to Spread Malware in Fake Microsoft Repositories
Screenshot: McAfee

GitHub’s comment feature stores files on its servers, creating real-time access links to them. This can trick potential victims into thinking they are clicking on a link from a trusted developer.  Users don’t need to send comments or bug reports as the file is already uploaded and available. 

What to do About it?

GitHub’s CDN files remain unchanged even after comments are posted or deleted, and downloaded URLs keep functioning. This issue allows threat actors to create sophisticated lures, as most software companies use GitHub and the file URL contains the repository name. 

Unfortunately, the only available solution is to disable comments, but this leads to more issues as legitimate users often report bugs or provide quality suggestions, and comments can only be disabled for up to six months at a time.

Why This Matters:

This deceptive tactic leverages the trusted nature of both GitHub and Microsoft. Users visiting these repositories might be tricked into downloading malware, believing they are getting legitimate Microsoft software.

This could have serious consequences, as downloaded malware could steal user credentials, compromise systems, steal browsing data and crypto funds or launch further attacks.

However, the good news is that according to Bleeping Computer, GitHub has removed the malware associated with Microsoft’s repositories.

How to Protect Yourself?

To protect yourself, download software directly from the developer’s official website, avoid clicking on links in comments or third-party websites, verify file hashes, and use a robust security solution with real-time malware scanning. If unsure about a download link, visit the official Microsoft website to ensure system safety.

Cyber Intelligence Team Manager at Cofense, Max Gannon, commented on the issue stating, This is a very clever tactic for threat actors to take advantage of, especially because GitHub has provided no way for companies to mitigate the threat.

The only thing that can be done is for individuals to exercise caution when clicking any link, regardless of where it appears to go or who it appears to be from, For example, if you stopped and thought about it, a .zip file containing cheat software is not likely to be directly hosted on a Microsoft repository, Max explained.

  1. Warning: Fake GitHub Repos Delivering Malware as PoCs
  2. Malware Concealed as Dependabot Contributions Hit GitHub
  3. Fake GitHub Repos Caught Dropping Malware as PoCs AGAIN!

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Google Contacts replaces ‘Fix & manage’ tab with new ‘Organize’ tab

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The Google Contacts app has three tabs at the bottom of its interface – Contacts, Highlights, and Fix & manage. In the upcoming update, Google is replacing the Fix & manage tab with the Organize tab.

This change was first noticed and shared by AssembleDebug about a month ago. At that time, this change was under testing and was enabled with a flag (45621130). Now, Google has started the public rollout of this feature in the app version 4.29 for Android.

Tools are more descriptive in the Organize tab

All the tools in the Fix & manage tab were in a 2×4 grid format and did not provide much information about what a particular tool would do. However, in the new Organize tab, the tools have been arranged in a list format, with each tool providing a brief description of its functionality.

Organize tab in Google Contacts.

For example, the Emergency contacts tool comes with the description, “Choose who others can call using your phone’s safety app.” This concise description gives an idea of what to expect when tapping on this tool. Similarly, the Bin tool description states, “Recently deleted Google Account contacts,” indicating that accessing this tool will display all recently deleted account contacts.

Furthermore, the Organize tab has two sections — Google and This Device. In the Google section, you will find options such as Merge and fix, Reminders, Emergency contacts, Family group, Restore contacts, and Bin. In the This Device section, options include Contacts ringtones, Manage SIM, Import from file, Export to file, Blocked numbers, and Settings.

There is also a search field in the Organize tab

You also have a search field in the Organize tab to match the Contact and Highlights tabs. This means you can search for your contact from the Organize tab, which was previously only possible from the Contacts and Highlights tabs.

Google Contacts is one of those Google apps that doesn’t receive major updates frequently. However, it seems like Google is now paying attention to their Contacts app. It wasn’t too long ago that Google rolled out Contacts ringtones in Google Contacts. And now, by replacing the Fix & manage tab with the Organize tab, Google is indicating that they have big plans for their Contact app.


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10-core Snapdragon X Plus has surfaced on GeekBench ML listing

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The Snapdragon X Elite, a power-efficient 12-core chip from Qualcomm has been in the discussions for a while now. However, it might not be the only chip that Qualcomm is working on to power the next generation of Windows-on-Arm computers.

The Snapdragon X Plus spotted on the Geekbench ML listing could be a cut-down version of the Snapdragon X Elite

The latest news is that a new chip named the Snapdragon X Plus (X1P64100) has surfaced on GeekBench. It appears to be a slightly cut-down version of the Snapdragon X elite chip with a total of 10 cores (6 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores) with a base frequency of 3.42GHz. For those unfamiliar, the Snapdragon X Elite equips 12 identical cores, 10 of which reach up to 3.8 GHz and the other 2 reach an even higher 4.3GHz clock speed.

Snapdragon X Plus GeekBench ML listing
Source: Geekbench

Windows Latest speculates that in addition to the Snapdragon X Elite, the 10-core Snapdragon X Plus chip may power the Surface Pro 10 laptop. The Snapdragon X Plus will likely make the Surface Pro 10 a bit more affordable and consumer-friendly.

Zac Bowden previously reported that Microsoft has been working on two Snapdragon X products, the Surface Pro 10 and the Surface Laptop 6. The latest GeekBench listing reveals more information about the Snapdragon X Plus chip.

The new chip could power a “mid-range” variant of the Surface Pro 10 OELD

According to the Geekbench ML test of the Snapdragon X Plus chip, the machine codenamed “OEMMN OEMMN” (which according to Windows Latest represents the Surface Pro 10) equips 16GB of RAM. As Laptop Mag noted, it could be a new baseline for computers with Snapdragon X series chips. The device scored 2410 in the machine learning test with a balanced power plan. The device runs Windows 11 Pro Insider Preview.

The Snapdragon X Plus chip reportedly comes with an integrated Snapdragon X65 modem from 2021. In comparison, the Snapdragon X Elite-powered computers use an external modem. It could also equip a slightly less powerful NPU (neural processing unit). Theoretically, it should result in slightly inferior performance in AI-based applications. Nonetheless, Qualcomm hasn’t officially announced this new chip and not much is known about it either.


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Gemini for Android may soon allow you to upload PDFs and files other than just images

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Ever since its launch earlier this year, the Gemini app on Android has been striving to become better at what it does. Though not yet a full “Google Assistant” replacement for many, recently the app has been rumored to be gaining new capabilities, such as real-time responses, and now it seems like Google is planning to introduce another useful feature: document uploads.
Right now, the app allows uploading only images. But according to a recent finding by AssembleDebug (via Android Authority), Gemini might soon allow uploads of PDFs and other documents. This feature is currently under development and only discovered after enabling some flags. It’s not clear when it will be available to all users, and it is not yet fully functional even in its testing phase. However, there are screenshots available of what the feature will look like as shown below.

Credit: Android Authority

In these screenshots, we can see how the user was able to upload a PDF document and have Gemini analyze and then summarize the contents. I could see this being extremely helpful in cases where translation is needed or simply for ease of accessibility. In addition to uploading a file directly from your phone, we can see that there’s also an option to upload a file from Google Drive. 

Given that Gemini has a basic and an advanced tier, it is possible that this feature might be reserved for paying customers, meaning those that are Google One AI subscribers. It is also a possibility that this could be a Google Workspace advanced feature. However, we are just speculating here, as this feature has not been announced or teased by Google.

The discovery of this feature comes alongside other rumored Gemini app upgrades such as the aforementioned real-time responses as well as support for third party music streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music. There’s no official confirmation about the release date for either feature, but it’s exciting to see new functionalities coming to the Gemini app. This will bring even more value to those that have opted to use Gemini over other chatbots, but especially for those that have opted to pay for the advanced version.

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PoC Exploit Released For Critical Oracle VirtualBox Vulnerability

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Oracle Virtualbox was identified and reported as having a critical vulnerability associated with Privilege Escalation and Arbitrary File Move/Delete.

This vulnerability was assigned with CVE-2024-21111, and the severity was 7.8 (High). 

However, Oracle has acted swiftly upon the report and has patched the vulnerability accordingly. Following that, Oracle also released a security advisory to address the vulnerability.

Recently Oracle Releases Security Update in 2024 – 372 Vulnerabilities Are Fixed

Now, a publicly available exploit proof-of-concept has been published, providing detailed information on the vulnerability.

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PoC Exploit Released

This vulnerability existed in Oracle Virtualbox versions prior to 7.0.16, which allows a threat actor to escalate privileges to that of NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM via Symbolic Link, which will either perform an arbitrary file delete or an arbitrary file move.

This is because Oracle Virtualbox allows every user to write to the installation folder C:\ProgramData\VirtualBox.

Moreover, Virtualbox attempts to move log files from the location as NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM for backup actions with a maximum of 10 logs. 

In addition to this, Virtualbox also tries to delete the 11th log on the location as NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM, which gives rise to these two bugs (File Delete and File Move) that can be utilized to attain privilege escalation.

As per the Proof-of-concept video shared for File Delete, the researcher uses a EXE file under the name “VBoxEoP_del.exe” which attempts to create a new log file (VBoxSDS.log.11) under the C:\ProgramData\Virtualbox directory and again attempts to delete the log file. 

This action combined together with an MSI file (Config.msi) provided the researcher with a new cmd terminal with the permissions of NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM.

The scenario is similar to Arbitrary file move also, in which the EXE file attempts to move the files from the C:\ProgramData\Virtualbox directory.

It is recommended that Virtualbox users upgrade to the latest versions to prevent threat actors from exploiting this vulnerability.

Looking to Safeguard Your Company from Advanced Cyber Threats? Deploy TrustNet to Your Radar ASAP.


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The Gemini app could be getting real time responses

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A while back, Google Gemini brought real-time responses for the web. This means that you’re able to see the response being typed out as the model is generating it. This contrasted with how the company used to simply show the text all at once. Well, according to a noted leaker, it appears that the Gemini app will also be getting real-time responses.

Though it may not seem like it with shorter responses, this feature definitely comes in handy with longer responses. If you’re looking to generate an entire essay or story, you’re going to want to get an idea of whether Gemini is going in the right direction. If Gemini generates the entire text at once, you may have to wait a few minutes before you can start reading it.

However, with real-time responses, you’ll start seeing text almost immediately. So, you can get a good idea of where it’s going right away. This is useful; if you notice that it’s not going in the right direction. Then, you can stop the generation then and there and make adjustments rather than waiting for the entire thing to be generated.

The Gemini app could get real-time responses

Right now, real-time responses are only available on the web version of Gemini. It’s unfortunate, as many people are likely to use the Gemini app over the site. It’s just a very convenient form factor.

Well, according to a new report, it appears that Google is working on bringing this feature over to the small screens. Popular leaker AssembleDebug released a screenshot (via PiunikaWeb) of the Gemini apps setting page, and it shows the real-time responses toggle up top.

Gemini real time responses

Along with the screenshot, PiunikaWeb was able to provide a screen recording of This capability. Just like on the web, you will see the text coming in gradually as Gemini is generating it. The text comes in rather quickly, which is a testament to Gemini’s speed.

At this point, we don’t know when Google is going to launch this for the app. However, since there’s already footage of it working on the device, it shouldn’t be too long.


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This company will be first to utilize Snapdragon 8 Gen 4

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A tipster has just seemingly revealed which company will be the first to utilize the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. This information comes from Yogesh Brar, and what he said here makes sense.

We now (think we) know which company will be first to utilize the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4

The tipster claims that Xiaomi will be the first company to utilize the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. That simply means that it will retain the exclusive right to do so,  as it had it last year too, for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.

Furthermore, the tipster claims that OnePlus and iQOO will follow suit. So those two companies are expected to be second and third in line to get their hands on the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.

Xiaomi aims to utilize that chip in the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Pro later this year. Those two phones will arrive to China in Q4, and likely to global markets. Well, at least the Xiaomi 15 will, if Xiaomi opts for the Xiaomi 15 + Xiaomi 15 Ultra combo in global markets.

OnePlus will utilize this chip in the OnePlus 13, while iQOO will use it in the iQOO 13, says Brar. That is basically everything the tipster shared with the public.

Qualcomm will use its custom ‘Oryon’ cores

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 will be the very first chip in which Qualcomm plans to use its own custom Oryon cores. Qualcomm’s exec even confirmed that the chip is coming in October.

This processor is allegedly codenamed ‘SUN’, and it’s expected to utilize 2+6 structure. It will be manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm process. This processor is said to launch without efficiency cores.

Qualcomm even showed us the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 reference handset by accident not long ago. A recent rumor even hinted that OEMs will use larger batteries with the new chip. That info hinted at lower power efficiency capabilities compared to its predecessors. We’ll see how accurate that is.


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U.S. to Impose Visa Restrictions on 13 Individuals

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To combat the misuse of commercial spyware, the United States Department of State has announced visa restrictions on 13 individuals linked to developing and selling these invasive technologies.

This decision underscores a broader initiative by the U.S. government to address the proliferation of spyware that threatens personal privacy, national security, and human rights.

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Crackdown on Spyware Misuse

Matthew Miller, the Department Spokesperson, revealed the new measures in a press statement dated April 22, 2024.

These individuals and their immediate family members have been identified as critical players in the spyware industry, benefiting from or facilitating the misuse of technology that has targeted a wide range of individuals, including journalists, academics, human rights defenders, and U.S. government personnel.

The misuse of commercial spyware has been a growing concern globally, with numerous reports highlighting how such tools have been used to infringe on personal freedoms and conduct espionage.

The visa restrictions have been imposed under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, following a policy approved by Secretary of State Antony Blinken in February 2024.

This legal framework provides the U.S. with the authority to deny entry to individuals whose activities potentially threaten the country’s foreign policy interests.

Broader U.S. Government Initiatives

The announcement is part of a comprehensive U.S. strategy to curb the dangers posed by commercial spyware.

This strategy includes visa restrictions, stringent export controls, sanctions, and the promotion of accountability measures.

The U.S. government has also limited its use of commercial spyware, which poses risks to national security and human rights.

The U.S. move to impose visa restrictions sends a strong message internationally about the seriousness with which it views the misuse of spyware.

It also sets a precedent for other nations to implement similar measures to protect individuals from digital threats and uphold human rights standards.

As the global landscape of technology and surveillance continues to evolve, the U.S. Department of State’s actions represent a critical step toward establishing a safer and more accountable digital environment.

The focus now turns to how other countries will respond to this initiative and whether an international consensus can be reached to effectively regulate the use of commercial spyware.

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Elon Musk announces ranking feature for X notifications

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X plans to introduce a ranking option for notifications. Like your Home feed, you will get “For You” and “Following” options for notifications on the platform. Elon Musk announced this upcoming feature, which is currently in development.

X is working on a ranking option for notifications

X (formerly Twitter) has changed substantially since multi-billionaire Elon Musk took over the company in 2022. First and foremost, the platform got a new name. Subsequently, tweets were rebranded into posts and retweets into reposts. While it is the same social network app at its core, it feels a lot different now.

Another change is on the way, Musk has confirmed. “The notification tab is currently in chronological order only. We’re working on a ranking option there, like For you vs Following,” the X owner posted on Monday evening. He didn’t elaborate on the feature. But his words suggest X will group notifications from accounts you follow in one place, separate from other notifications.

Interestingly, the platform already has three sections in the Notifications tab, though they are designed to filter notifications rather than group them separately. By default, you land on the All section housing all of your notifications. The Verified section filters them to show notifications from verified accounts, including likes and comments, aka replies.

The Mentions section houses notifications for posts where you have been directly mentioned. If a verified account has mentioned you in a post or reply, you will find the notification in all three sections. It is unclear if the new ranking options will replace these or if X will keep them all, allowing users to sort notifications in multiple ways. The company may share more details soon.

Users want a more robust system for managing notifications

This upcoming change might lay the foundation for a more robust system for notification management on X. Replies under Musk’s post suggest users want a wide range of categories for sorting notifications, like Subscribers, Verified, Recent, Most liked, and more. “Sorting options on [the] engagement screen would be amazing too. When a post goes semi-viral, [it] would be helpful to see which repost was most impactful,” a user wrote.

It remains to be seen if X implements these suggestions. As Musk said, it is currently working on a ranking option for notifications. The planned change may arrive with a new update in a few weeks or months. We will keep a close eye on the development and let you know when we have more information to share. In the meantime, make sure to keep the X app updated on your phone so you don’t miss out on new features.


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Microsoft unveiled its Phi-3 family of AI models

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Ever since the birth of the computer, we’ve seen the trend of groundbreaking technology coming down in size while getting more powerful. The computers in our pockets are exponentially more powerful than the large room-sized computers that were used back in the 60s. Well, this is happening with AI models. Microsoft just released the Phi-3 series of AI models, and they come in three sizes.

If this sounds familiar, Google released Gemini, a family of models that comes in three sizes. Recently, Meta launched its Llama 3 family of models, which also comes in different sizes. Companies are utilizing different sizes for their LLMs which makes them more versatile.

Where this really shines is on-device computing. There are several developers who don’t quite need large Internet-connected LLMs for their needs. Many people are just fine using smaller models that can easily fit on a computer.

Microsoft just released its Phi-3 AI models

Microsoft announced that these models are more powerful than the last iteration. One of the more interesting models in this family is the Phi-3 mini. It’s the smallest one in the family, and it’s designed to fit on smaller devices such as computers or smartphones. If it is small enough to fit on smartphones, then it could be a competitor to Google’s Gemini Nano.

The corporate vice president of Microsoft Azure, Eric Boyd, told The Verge that Phi-3 Mini is actually as capable as GPT-3.5. However, it’s in a much smaller form factor. According to the report, Phi-3 Mini has 3.8 billion parameters. The next model in the family is called Phi-3 Small, and that has 7 billion parameters. Lastly, Phi-3 Medium has 14 billion parameters.

If you’re using platforms like Microsoft’s Azure, Hugging Face, or Ollama, you have access to Phi-3 mini. We’re sure that these new AI models will help push Microsoft forward in the rapidly growing AI space. It’s one of the leaders of artificial intelligence, so, we’re excited to see what the company does next.


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