Windows batch files: Strange behavior of the IF command

Windows[German]German blog reader Frank contacted me about a problem on Windows that I don't really have an explanation for. Originally it was about the IF command in batch files returning wrong values when comparing. So Frank tested the whole thing with PowerShell and found something similar there. Only a test program written with VB .NET delivered the expected results. Since the batch program also delivers the same, incorrect, results under Windows 7, I assume that Frank and I have overlooked something. I'll post the problem here in the blog – maybe a reader will notice something.

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Sophos XG Firewall: RCE vulnerability (CVE-2022-3236)

Sicherheit (Pexels, allgemeine Nutzung)[German]Vendor Sophos warns about a remote code execution vulnerability in its firewall. There is a code injection vulnerability in the Sophos XG Firewall user portal and web admin (UTM products not affected). This vulnerability is already being exploited in a limited number of cases in Asia. An update is available to close the vulnerability.

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WhatsApp: Two vulnerabilities allow remote code execution

[German]Meta subsidiary WhatsApp warns about two vulnerabilities in its apps for Android and iOS that put users' security at risk. Both vulnerabilities allow remote code execution – so the apps should be updated promptly.

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Windows 11 22H2: Issues and upgrade stoppers

Windows[German]The upgrade to Windows 11 version 22H2, which was released on September 20, 2022, doesn't seem to be a no-brainer at all. Users who have upgraded to the version are complaining about bugs – and some features like tabs in Windows Explorer won't come until October via the "Moments 1" update. Gamers are complaining about bugs, and Microsoft has already had to admit to an upgrade block on certain versions of the Intel Smart Sound Technology driver. Unofficially, there also seems to be an upgrade blocker to version 22H2 on the Microsoft IPP Class Driver.

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Windows 11 strengthens SMB traffic protection

Windows[German]Microsoft is starting to improve protection for the SMB protocol in Windows 11. Thus, Microsoft has introduced a delay between SMB authentications in Windows 11 (in Insider Previews). This is intended to prevent spying on SMB traffic. There is also protection against SMB monitoring. Microsoft has published a couple of blog posts about the protections that have been put in place.

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Why ISL Online: Critical factors when choosing a remote desktop solution

[Sponsored Post]In the rapidly evolving IT world, choosing the right remote desktop software is critical for organizations that value security, ease of use and reliability. One provider of secure remote access that has been on the market since 2001 is ISL Online, which presents some considerations for choosing such software below. More ...


Toner & ink subscription Brother EcoPro on the start

[German]The printer manufacturer Brother is also trying a subscription model for inks and toners – similar to HP. The whole thing is currently being tested in France, and Germany will follow at some point.

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Windows 10/11: Strange issues since August 2022 updates

Windows[German]German blog reader Henning contacted me via email because he has been experiencing Windows 10 and Windows 11 issues on several machines since the August 2022 updates. Four identical systems running Windows 10 or Windows 11 have been experiencing startup issues since installing the August 2022 updates. The machines are stuck at 30% of the installation after a reboot. I put the description in the blog – maybe there are more affected or someone knows a solution.

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Google Chromecast with Google TV (HD)

[GER]Small addendum from this week: Google has introduced a new Chromecast model with support for Google TV (HD). With a Chromecast stick, you can stream wirelessly from a device (Android smartphone, desktop PC with Chrome browser) to a connected TV.

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17 year old arrested in England for Uber hack, member of Lapsus$ group?

Sicherheit (Pexels, allgemeine Nutzung)[German]In the last few days, I reported on various hacks at the ride service provider Uber, at Rockstar Games, and so on. A hacker with the alias Tea Pot claims to be only 18 years old and to have penetrated various IT systems for "fun". Subsequently, data was published. Now there are reports that the hacker belongs to the $Lapsus group – and an arrest of a 17 year old in the UK – in connection with hacking – has been reported.

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Windows 11: Compatibility issues with Intel Smart Sound Technology

Windows[German]Microsoft has acknowledged compatibility issues with the drivers for Intel Smart Sound Technology on Windows 11 21H2 and 22H2. This can lead to BlueScreens and audio problems during operation. Microsoft has blocked the feature update to Windows 11 version 22H2 on affected systems.

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