Technology

Microsoft patches Windows 10 issue that accidentally blocked extended security updates from installing — latest update should finally fix all the issues for ESU-eligible devices

Source

Tom's Hardware

Published

Nov 12, 2025

TL;DR

AI Generated

Microsoft has resolved issues preventing Extended Security Updates (ESU) from installing correctly on Windows 10 devices in the ESU program. The out-of-band Windows update KB5071959 fixes all ESU problems, including issues with ESU enrollment in EU regions and error messages during sign-up. ESU is crucial for maintaining security on Windows 10 devices post-end-of-life, and the update is essential for those struggling with ESU enrollment. ESU provides critical security updates for Windows 10, safeguarding devices from online threats for the next one to three years.

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Linux exploit instantly grants administrator access on most distributions since 2017 — cryptography optimization snafu grants root privileges to local users

A recent Linux exploit, CVE-2026-31431, allows local unprivileged users to gain root access instantly on most Linux distributions since 2017. The exploit affects popular distros like Ubuntu, RHEL, Suse, and Amazon Linux, as well as Windows' WSL2. The vulnerability, discovered by Xint Code researchers, involves a cryptography optimization flaw that grants administrator privileges through a devious attack on the AF_ALG socket. While a patch has been released, some distributions may still be vulnerable, requiring mitigation methods like disabling AF_ALG sockets. The exploit occurs in memory without leaving detectable traces on disk, making it challenging to detect with security software.

Tom's Hardware•

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Windows 11 KB5083631 out with Xbox mode, faster performance (direct download links .msu)

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A critical Linux vulnerability, named CopyFail (CVE-2026-31431), has been disclosed by security researchers, allowing unprivileged users to gain root access across various Linux distributions. The exploit code, released by Theori, works universally without modification, posing a significant threat to data centers and personal devices. While the Linux kernel security team patched the vulnerability in several versions, many distributions had not yet implemented the fixes at the time of the exploit's release. This flaw enables attackers to execute malicious activities like hacking multi-tenant systems and creating backdoors, emphasizing the severity of the issue.

Ars Technica•

20 hours ago

Crucial Taiwan undersea cable severed by old shipwreck — backup microwave communications activated to keep population connected

A shipwreck off Dongyin island in Taiwan has severed the undersea cable connecting it to Beigan Island, prompting the activation of backup microwave communications to maintain connectivity for the 1,500 residents. The Matsu Islands' strategic location near mainland China and the Taiwan Strait makes them crucial for Taiwan's military presence. While this incident was due to natural causes, it underscores Taiwan's vulnerability in its global connections. Recent suspicions of deliberate undersea cable damage by Chinese ships have led Taiwan to increase defensive measures and penalties for sabotage attempts. Despite wireless backups, physical undersea cables remain essential for reliable and high-bandwidth internet connections.