Discussions, summarized

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• Hacker News1Windows Notepad App Remote Code Execution VulnerabilityCVE-2026-20841 is a high-severity remote code execution vulnerability in Windows Notepad App that allows unauthorized attackers to execute code over a network due to improper neutralization of special elements used in commands. The vulnerability affects Windows Notepad versions 11.0.0 before 11.2510 and has been published by Microsoft Corporation with a CVSS score of 8.8.Feature creep in notepad:Users lament that Microsoft transformed Notepad from a simple text editor into a complex application with AI, Markdown rendering, and network capabilities. Many prefer the old Win98/Win7 versions and argue the utility was "done software" that didn't need enhancement.Microsoft's shifting business priorities:Discussion reveals Windows now ranks 5th in Microsoft's revenue sources behind cloud services and LinkedIn. Users debate whether Microsoft still cares about Windows as a platform, with some viewing it as a "trojan horse" for other services.Security vulnerability details:The CVE stems from Notepad's new clickable link handling in Markdown files, which can launch unverified protocols and execute remote files. Users compare this unfavorably to browsers that warn users before launching external protocols.
• Reddit science1Using scented products indoors changes the chemistry of the air, producing as much air pollution as car exhaust does outside, according to a new study. Researchers say that breathing in these nanosized particles could have serious health implications.Using scented products indoors, such as flame-free candles and wax melts, can create significant indoor air pollution comparable to car exhaust. Research by Purdue University found these products release nanosized particles that can penetrate deep into lungs and potentially enter the bloodstream, posing serious respiratory health risks.Misleading title scope:Discussion about how study only focused on wax melts but title suggests all scented products, with debate about whether findings could logically extend to other scented itemsHealth concerns from chemist:A chemist's perspective against using scented products leads to sharing of personal health impact stories, from COPD to cancer cases, and debate about necessity of artificial scentsAir purification solutions:Discussion of HEPA filters and other air purification methods as solutions, with debate about effectiveness against different types of pollutants like VOCs and nanoparticles
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