People don’t often think of their smartphones as being a way that hackers can attack their personal information. This is not really the case, however, as phones become more and more like small computers that live in your pocket. As technology continues to evolve, it’s important to consider every device to be at risk.

Smartphones can do more and more things that computers can do and you will find that you have probably not considered the ways in which your phone might expose you to personal data security safety. Your smartphone has access to the internet, can be connected to public WIFI, and has access to most of your banking and personal data through apps. This makes it a very easy way to gain access to your online data that you would otherwise think was safe.

Even if you have your computers locked down really well, your cellphone might lead to a hacker being able to gain access to your personal information that would have been safe if your phone was locked down in a better way. If you want to learn more about making your smartphone more safe and secure, read on!

5 Tips for Making Smartphone More Safe and Secure

1.       Use a Password

You should always use a password or a lock sequence to lock your phone down. If you drop your phone or forget it somewhere, it is a huge risk to have it open to being used by anyone that picks it up. If you want to be sure that your phone is secure, even if it is lost somewhere.  Until you search to find it, you need to use the lock screen options that keep your phone secure from outsiders unlocking it.

Secure passwords and other kinds of lock combinations that can protect your phone will make sure that people cannot pick up your phone and access your data and other information if they pick up your phone. If you leave your phone at a friend’s house, drop it on public transit, or forget it in airport security, you will be able to be sure that your phone is safe if someone picks it up.

2.       Do Not Use Public Chargers

Public charging hubs can be the source of hacking attempts. Public ports can lead to hackers having access to your phone when it is plugged into the public hub. These hubs can transmit data and mine it, and you want to avoid this possible connection to data theft that you do not want to be exposed to.

Compromised power strips and other kinds of power outlets that are common use in public locations are always risky to use and you should consider if this is the best choice for your needs. You should always be able to find a wall plug-in if you need it, and you do not need to feel pressured to use these charging hubs if there is no obvious choice available. Make sure that you are not lured into using a public charging hub unless it is the direst situation.

3.       Use Two-Factor Authentication

You might originally be annoyed having to do these extra steps, but two-factor authentication can make sure that your phone is very safe from hacking. This process double-checks your access and identity to make sure that it is legitimate before you access your banking app among other things.

Two-factor security is becoming far more common and you should jump on board the security train that is offered by this process. You will just enter a code and your phone will verify that it is you who is accessing your personal information before allowing you to use your phone for access to apps. You can also use biometric information for this two-factor authentication process.

4.       Keep Your Phone Updated

Updates make sure that your phone’s security is up to date. Security patches make sure that your phone does not allow access to your data through common cyber threats and you will be much better protected if you use these updates as soon as they are made available. Skipping updates on your phone can lead to major issues with security as well as issues with performance.  If you smartphone isn’t working consider repairing it rather than throwing it away and getting a new one.

Your phone will usually offer you a security update at least once a month, but you should never assume that you do not need to take advantage of these updates when they are offered. It usually takes a few minutes to download a security patch and you do not have to feel like this is a big burden if you stay on top of these updates as they arrive.

5.       Avoid the Use of Public WIFI

Public WIFI is rife with risks and you should always turn off your public WIFI access when you do not need it for anything. WIFI access can expose your phone to many threats that you can avoid by simply turning off your WIFI when you do not need it. Public WIFI sources are always going to open your phone to risks that are better off avoided.

WIFI use can be necessary, but you should always limit your access to public WIFI sources that are not secured, particularly if you are traveling. There is no need to use a huge WIFI network like an airport or restaurant’s WIFI unless you really need WIFI for some reason. Phones these days have access to a network for your needs, so you should not feel pressured to use public WIFI for any reason.

If you do need to use public WIFI, make sure that you have a VPN that you can use for this access. A VPN will encrypt your connection and make it as safe and secure as if you were not using public WIFI. Forbes has rated and shortlisted VPN providers based on a criteria of options if you’re looking for a trusted VPN service.

Making Your Smartphone Secure is Easy

If you have been worrying about keeping your phone safe when you are using it on a daily basis you should use these tips and tricks to make sure that your phone is secure every day. You should never skip updates, always use good WIFI practices and avoid basic issues that can lead to cyberthreats and other kinds of hacking. If you make sure that your phone safety behaviors are on point, you will have good luck with your overall phone safety practices.

Keeping your phone safe is important to make sure that you do not fall prey to any of the common data theft and cybersecurity issues that can lead to personal identity issues and other problems for people.

This year, Americans are expected to spend $4 billion on smartphone repairs.  Compared to the $59 billion they spend on new phones, this isn’t a lot.  But as the lifespans of phones increase and the cost of new devices rise, Americans are holding onto their phones longer. When we keep the same phone for a longer time, we’re more likely to see breaks happen.

Phone damage happens to the best of us.  In the US, 2 smartphone screens crack every second. 72% of people have a smartphone that’s broken in some way.  Those who have previously broken a phone are twice as likely to do it again.  Breaks usually happen on the go; nearly a third of broken phones got their scars in a car or parking lot.

Can You Repair a Broken Smartphone?

Chances are you’ve dealt with a broken phone before.  Before you rush to replace it, consider the alternatives.  Right now, the majority of people say they would rather upgrade to a new device than fix an old one.  Yet there are many benefits to repairing a broken device, especially for those who care about the environment.  When fewer new devices are manufactured, factors produce less greenhouse gas emissions.

Tossed electronic devices contain hazardous chemicals, and improper disposal can harm ecosystems.  Even dropping your smartphone off at an eco-center needs to be disposed of.  It’s still waste.  Repairing devices reduces the number of discarded devices out there, reducing smartphone pollution. And let’s face the facts!  Smartphones are not the most environmentally friendly manufactured devices in the first place.

Being Eco Friendly Also Saves You Money

Usually, caring about the environment takes more time and effort.  It can also result in paying more for products.  But this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t make the effort.  When it comes to smartphones, repairing your phone can often be more convenient.  Fixing your old phone means you won’t have to adjust to a new device.

Furthermore, consumers typically spend less on repairs than they would on purchasing a replacement.  Even better than repairing your phone, you can take precautions to ensure it does not break in the first place.

Easy Ways to Protect Your Device from Damage.

We spend most of our time devoted to teaching smartphone users how to protect their data and privacy.  But here are some ways to protect your device physically. 

To start, use a sturdy phone case.  Cases guard against drops and other damage.  The best cases have shock-absorbent materials like silicone or rubber.  Another thing you can use is a screen protector.  Protectors guard your screen against scratches and most cracking.  Many new phones are made with Gorilla Glass, meaning screen protectors aren’t as necessary as they used to be.

Finally, charge your battery.  Maintain at least 50% charge whenever possible to maximize your phone’s battery life.  If you feel like you’re constantly needing to charge, it’s time for a battery check-up.  These usually happen every 2-3 years.  And yes, batteries are relatively inexpensive to replace as well.  Some people get a new phone only because their battery is toast.  That’s just plane sad.

To recap, there a many reasons to make your smartphone last. Save time, save money, and save our precious environment.  Use reasonable protection and invest in easily accessible, cost-saving repairs.

Online gaming isn’t just for fun anymore. It’s a means to socialize. Gaming can even have some serious benefits when it comes to a child’s psyche, as gaming can encourage collaboration and team building, improve social skills through effective communication, and allow children to connect with other people that have the same hobbies.

Social benefits aside, many parents understandably are wary of letting their kids play video games and also engage in the gaming communities that supplement them — and we don’t blame them. Thankfully, there are a few things we can instill in our kids to teach them how to safely engage with fellow gamers online, beginning with these three best practices.

1.  “Never share your personal information”

When it comes to online gaming, there’s no such thing as being too careful. Sharing personal information can put your child at risk of hackers and other dangerous cyber activity.

That being said, be sure to warn your child about sharing personal information online, including your address, phone number, full names, and even account passwords. This way, your child will be able to have fun and connect with other gamers without putting both you and themselves at risk.

2.  “Be aware of pop-up scams”

Pop-up scams are all too common on the internet. However, with a child on a computer, it’s essential to warn them about these malicious pop-ups and inform them on what to do if they encounter one.

Without properly educating your child on cyber scams, they may accidentally download malware that can harm your device. Not to mention, cybercriminals may send harmful attachments on forums that your child can gain access to.

3.  “Don’t purchase cheat codes”

Sometimes, it’s cool to get certain modifications and cheat codes on the internet. However, things get a lot less cool when these cheat codes (potentially) expose your device to harmful viruses.

For this reason, it’s extremely important to educate your child on cheat codes and how they may harm your device. While downloading cheat codes can be tempting, your child should know the impact they may have on your devices so that they can think twice before pressing “download.”

For more perspective on gaming communities and how to engage safely in them, pore over the infographic below, courtesy of Norton.

Read about online safety for kids while playing Pokemon Go.

Review the parents guide to navigating Twitch TV.

Tutoring is an effective and convenient way to learn a subject, skill, or language. And the profession of online tutor allows you to teach without leaving your home, in a comfortable home environment for both the student and the teacher.

Nowadays, online tutoring is especially widespread and in high demand. So, this article will be very useful for those who want to start tutoring learners online and who want to study online at their home convenience.  We will reveal the advantages that online tutoring includes within.  Keep on reading!

Description of the Online tutoring

The tutoring profession involves teaching learners certain subjects, knowledge, and skills. Basically, the services of teachers on the network are used by schoolchildren. Some tutoring services, such as Alchemy Tuition, offer both online and in-person home tutoring.

Slightly less often, an online tutor is hired by students and adults. This is a great way to pull up a certain subject or improve knowledge in a certain direction. Work as a tutor online takes place either on a private basis or through a specialized online tuition platform.

In the first case, the teacher can find students through announcements or word of mouth and conducts classes online through standard programs like Skype, Zoom, etc. In most cases, the lesson takes place via video communication, so that the learner and the teacher can not only hear, but also see each other.

Less often, online classes are held only through voice communication. If the tutor works through one of the many services for online training, then the lessons are conducted either on the website platform, or also in Skype, but with an agreement through the service. This option is better because of the reliability of the service and the fact that you can see the grades and reviews of other students. But any service necessarily takes a commission or a specific fee, most often from teachers.

How Online Tutoring is beneficial?

There are online tutoring websites that connect students with tutors who are qualified in chemistry, physics, biology, and maths, just to name a few.  In addition, tutors can help students prepare students for university entrance and medical degrees. Here are a few reasons why tutoring is beneficial for all ages and grade levels.

Innovative and Interactive

The first benefit we have in our pocket is that online tutoring holds the capacity to engage extensive learners. These days, he children are digital-oriented and prefer to learn or practice in the virtual environment. Hence, they are likely to get adapted to the technology easily.

In addition, the methodologies or the tools that are easily accessible in these online learning platforms improve the learner’s learning experience. Like; whiteboards, sharing screens, and additional interactive features are responsible for assuring collaboration among the learner and the tutor. Saying that the classes will not be boring anymore is indeed true!

Extending Educational Horizons

Online tutoring is not limited to the learners of the same country or region. It allows tutors to teach all around the globe. From general science and biology to chemistry and maths, learners can find a tutor on platforms like Tutor Hunt, get connected with them, and start their journey of learning.  This helps to improve the experience by providing convenient options to extend educational horizons, despite the location.

The tutors will learn about the new curriculum and have the chance to develop their communication skills by communicating with learners from various countries.

Self-paced customized tutoring

The online classes are generally individualized which makes it convenient for the tutor and the learner. The student can ask the query or clear the doubt on the topic many times if they are unable to understand without any hesitation. When hiring a tutor, students can prepare for upcoming exams and receive focused personalized help.

As compared to the conventional classroom, learners do not need to keep up with the rhythm of the whole class. Instructors can spend time at their own pace to strengthen the areas where students need more hard work. Tutors can prepare lesson plans at their own convenience as per the requirements of students, converting learning more customized.

No mismanagement

The reports have revealed that online tutoring has improved the overall effectiveness of the tutors because every course is properly managed according to the learners’ requirements.  When online teaching is provided in a customized way, learners will benefit more and avoid any mismanagement.

The tutor does not need to track the number of learners present in the class, therefore distractions or the tutor not concentrating on one person actually does not exist.

Tutoring at home convenience

That is why online tutoring is far better than tutoring in-person. The main advantage is that the classes can be carried out easily. You are only required to have a laptop or a reliable internet connection to use Zoom or any other video application for online courses.

The tutors do not need to travel the long way to interact with the students and certainly, it saves a lot of time and money. You don’t need to bother about cleaning your home, just sit down at the table and you can start the online classes right away. The biggest advantage is to avoid the terrible commute to work.

Economic high-quality online classes

The skilled tutors offer 24X7 assistance to the learners. When you decide to conduct online tutoring while proceeding to work, they can choose an online tutoring service. The learners do not need to spend more time visiting the tutor. The online course’s affordability is very inexpensive and saves transportation and time costs. Several online platforms provide appealing discounts on online tutoring services by choosing the package for more subjects and months.

Concluding Remarks

Tutoring is a worthwhile supplement for any learner wishing to achieve the most educational success. It fills in any gaps that might occur in the busy school period and strengthen skills that may not be strong enough.