In the latest Linux Security Roundup for Week 7, 2026, various distributions, including AlmaLinux, Debian, Fedora, Oracle, and more, have released critical security updates addressing vulnerabilities in packages like Node.js, Mozilla Thunderbird, Firefox, and the Linux kernel. AlmaLinux has issued multiple updates to fix issues such as remote code execution and memory corruption across various packages, while Debian focused on vulnerabilities affecting Zabbix, Wireshark, and more. Fedora has also rolled out security updates to address vulnerabilities in packages like Plantuml and Node-Exporter, as well as critical updates for Chromium and libvpx. Additionally, Oracle, Red Hat, Rocky Linux, and SUSE have issued patches for various security issues, ensuring that users are protected against potential risks

GridinSoft Anti-Malware version 5.0.13 has been released, providing an efficient solution for combating various PC threats, such as adware, malware, and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). The software is designed to simplify the process of detecting and removing these threats, ensuring users maintain a secure environment free from virus and malware attacks.

Microsoft released its February 2026 security updates, which include 59 patches addressing various vulnerabilities, with a notable high-severity flaw in the Notepad app and a critical Azure SDK vulnerability rated 9.8. The updates focus on core Windows components, and while some issues are less critical, they can still lead to crashes or data loss, emphasizing the importance of applying all patches. Users can easily install the updates through the Windows Update client or manually via the Microsoft Update Catalog, ensuring drivers are current to avoid compatibility issues. Certain lower-priority updates can be deferred temporarily, but skipping them regularly is discouraged as it may lead to larger update burdens later

Argente Malware Cleaner, now at version 3.0.5.4, is a specialized tool designed to perform on-demand scans of local systems to detect and eliminate malware. As part of the Argente Utilities suite, it provides users with an effective means to enhance their computer's security by identifying harmful components and files.

Glarysoft has released version 1.212.0.845 of its Malware Hunter software, designed to detect and eliminate malicious files and threats from your computer. The program features a hyper-scan option that allows for rapid scanning to identify viruses and other security issues, ensuring that all traces of these threats are removed from your system. Unlike traditional antivirus programs that provide constant monitoring, Malware Hunter operates as an on-demand scanner.

Antivirus Live CD 51.0-1.5.1 is a lightweight Linux environment based on 4MLinux that incorporates ClamAV 1.5.1 for on-the-fly virus scanning. It automatically mounts all detected partitions upon boot and supports various network connections for immediate signature updates, making it ideal for rescue operations on machines that won't boot. Users can create a bootable USB stick using UNetbootin or Rufus, allowing them to run scans without installing software on the host system. While it excels in verifying potentially compromised systems or conducting quick offline scans, it is not a replacement for everyday antivirus solutions and has limitations regarding RAM usage and Wi-Fi driver compatibility

Luanti 5.15.1 has been released, marking a significant update to the block sandbox game previously known as Minetest. This game allows players to explore an endless world constructed from blocks, drawing inspiration from titles like InfiniMiner and Minecraft. Designed for simplicity, stability, and portability, Luanti is lightweight enough to be enjoyed on older hardware, making it accessible to a broader audience.

In the week of February 6, 2026, a range of security updates were issued for several Linux distributions, including AlmaLinux, Debian, Fedora, Oracle Linux, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Rocky Linux, Slackware, SUSE, and Ubuntu. These updates addressed various vulnerabilities across numerous packages such as the kernel, PHP, OpenSSL, and Python, targeting issues like denial of service, heap buffer overflows, and information disclosure. Each distribution released specific security advisories detailing the vulnerabilities fixed, including critical updates for applications like OpenJDK, MySQL, and others. Overall, these updates are crucial for maintaining the security and stability of the affected Linux systems

Avira Safe Shopping, now available for Chrome, Edge, and Opera, has released version 7.34.2.825. This browser extension is designed to enhance users' safety and privacy while shopping online, as well as to help find better deals across various websites. Initially overlooked, the extension proved its worth during a shopping experience on Amazon, where it highlighted a lower price for a product on Sam's Club. The user discovered significant savings by switching to the Sam's link, demonstrating the extension's effectiveness in cost-saving.

IObit has released version 15.3.0.1 of its uninstaller software, IObit Uninstaller. This application is designed to completely remove unwanted programs, Windows apps, and browser extensions/toolbars, especially in cases where the native Windows Add or Remove Programs feature fails.

The OWASP CRS 4.23.0 release introduces new detection rules, cleans up false positives, and includes housekeeping improvements. Key updates include protections against Vite.js path traversal attacks, fake Mozilla user-agent requests, and PHP session file uploads, alongside several fixes for common false-positive triggers. Although the housekeeping changes may not be immediately noticeable, they improve processing efficiency and clean up redundant elements. Users already on recent CRS versions should find the upgrade low-risk and beneficial, while those on older releases are encouraged to upgrade for enhanced alert management and reduced noise

Norton 360 Remover version 26.1.10348.0 has been released as a dedicated tool for the complete uninstallation of the Norton device security product from Windows devices. This utility is specifically designed to ensure that all associated files and settings are thoroughly removed, providing users with a clean slate for potential reinstallation of the software. By utilizing Norton 360 Remover, users can effectively eliminate any remnants of previous installations, which can help improve the overall performance and reliability of their Norton security applications.

AVG Clear (Remover) version 26.1.10738 has been released, providing users with a tool to completely uninstall their AVG antivirus software. This utility is designed to remove every trace of AVG from a computer, including registry entries, installation files, and user data. It should be used as a last resort when traditional uninstallation methods fail, such as during a problematic repair, reinstallation, or when a complete removal is necessary.

Notepad++ users who ran older versions or had auto-updates enabled may have been targeted by state-sponsored hackers between June and December 2025, which compromised the update process and delivered malicious installers. Signs of compromise include unusual update dialog pop-ups, mismatched version numbers, and larger installer sizes, prompting users to check their installation for vulnerabilities. To mitigate risks, users should download Notepad++ 8.9.1 from the official site, verify its digital signature, disable auto-updates, and change any credentials if they used shared hosting. The new version enhances security by signing the XML update manifest and verifying the certificate chain, helping to prevent future attacks

Linux Security Roundup for Week 5, 2026: Summary and Insights

The Farbar Recovery Scan Tool (FRST) version 31.1.2026 has been released and is available for free as a portable application. It is designed to help users diagnose malware issues on their systems and is compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows.

IPFire 2.29 - Core Update 200 has been released for testing, marking a significant milestone for the development team and the IPFire community. This update includes a rebase on the Linux kernel 6.18 LTS (specifically version 6.18.7), which brings enhanced security measures, improved performance, and greater system stability. With these upgrades, users can expect smoother network operations and better protection against vulnerabilities.

Atlantis Word Processor Lite 5.0.1 has been released, offering users a robust and efficient tool for their word processing needs. This software caters to both beginners and advanced users, providing an array of features essential for creating professional documents. Whether you're drafting reports, writing novels, or composing letters, Atlantis Word Processor Lite is designed to handle tasks ranging from the simplest to the most intricate with ease.

Malwarebytes has recently released versions 5.4.7.229 and 5.19.1.3534, continuing its reputation as a comprehensive antivirus solution that protects users from malware, ransomware, exploits, and various malicious websites and applications. The software is user-friendly, designed to efficiently detect and remove a vast array of threats, including spyware, worms, trojans, rootkits, rogues, and adware. Users can initiate a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free, which will suggest items to remove at no cost. For enhanced protection, users can upgrade to Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Premium, which offers real-time scanning and additional protective features.

Linux Security Roundup for Week 4, 2026