Performance - PSafe Blog

Does a Padlock in Your Browser Always Mean a Website Is Safe?

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 19:10:25 +0000

You’re shopping online, find a great deal, and notice a small padlock next to the website address. That usually feels reassuring.

For years, people have associated this symbol with online security. But there’s something important you should know: even a fake website can display a padlock.

Scammers can create convincing websites with familiar logos, professional designs, and encrypted connections to trick visitors into sharing passwords, payment details, and personal information.

So what does the padlock actually mean, and how can you tell whether a website is trustworthy?

What Does the Padlock Symbol Mean?

The padlock traditionally displayed in a browser’s address bar indicates that a website uses HTTPS, a protocol that helps protect communication between your browser and the website’s server.

HTTPS uses encryption to make it harder for third parties to intercept or modify information while it travels across the internet.

For example, when you enter information into a form, HTTPS helps protect that information during transmission.

However, there’s a critical distinction: an encrypted connection does not guarantee that the person or company operating the website is legitimate.

Google explains this difference in its official guide on how to check whether a website’s connection is secure.

Can a Fake Website Have a Padlock?

Yes. And that’s one reason phishing websites can be so convincing.

Imagine receiving a text message claiming that your package is being held until you pay a small delivery fee.

You open the link and see a familiar shipping company logo, professional-looking graphics, and an HTTPS connection.

Everything seems legitimate.

But the website may actually belong to scammers who created a fake page to collect your credit card number, address, or other personal information.

In that situation, HTTPS protects the connection to the fraudulent website. It does not prevent the website operator from misusing the information you submit.

That’s why the padlock should never be your only sign of trust.

Why Did Google Chrome Replace the Padlock Icon?

The padlock became so widely misunderstood that Google redesigned how Chrome displays website security information.

Modern versions of Chrome use a controls icon instead of the traditional padlock.

The goal was to avoid suggesting that a website is trustworthy simply because its connection is encrypted.

In its official explanation, Google’s Chromium team described why it replaced the padlock icon, emphasizing that HTTPS does not establish the trustworthiness of a website.

The change reinforces an important distinction: a connection can be technically secure while the website itself remains dangerous.

How Can You Tell if a Website Is Trustworthy?

Instead of relying on one symbol, look at several details before signing in, shopping, or sharing personal information.

1. Check the Full Website Address

Scammers frequently create domains that resemble those of legitimate businesses.

A swapped letter, an extra word, or an unexpected hyphen can make a fraudulent address look convincing.

For example, store-example.account-alert.com does not necessarily belong to a company called Store Example. The controlling domain in this example is account-alert.com.

Always compare the actual domain with the company’s official website.

2. Be Careful With Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True

Huge discounts, countdown timers, and messages claiming an offer will expire in minutes can be used to pressure shoppers.

Before entering payment details, visit the retailer’s official app or website independently.

3. Pay Attention to Where the Link Came From

Unexpected links received through SMS, iMessage, email, or social media should be treated cautiously.

Even messages that appear to come from familiar brands may be part of a phishing attempt.

4. Question Unexpected Requests for Information

Be suspicious if a website unexpectedly asks for your password, verification code, banking information, or sensitive personal details.

A professional design does not make these requests legitimate.

5. Use an Additional Layer of Protection

Security tools can help identify suspicious URLs before you open them.

In the PSafe blog, we explain how to check if a link is safe and how dfndr Security scans suspicious URLs.

A link checker can help identify potential threats, but it should always be combined with checking the domain and verifying the source of the message.

Warning Signs of a Fake Website

Some common red flags include:

A domain that differs from the company’s official address.
Small spelling changes in a familiar brand name.
Unusually low prices or aggressive countdown timers.
Unexpected requests for passwords or verification codes.
Fake banking, shopping, or delivery pages.
Links sent through unsolicited messages.
Forms requesting unnecessary personal information.

A single warning sign does not always prove fraud. However, several signs appearing together should make you reconsider whether the website is legitimate.

What Should You Do if You Entered Information on a Suspicious Website?

If you realize a website may have been fraudulent after entering personal information, act quickly.

If you entered a password, change it immediately using the official website or app. Change that password anywhere else you reused it.

If you shared payment details, contact your bank or card provider through an official channel.

You should also enable multi-factor authentication, review recent account activity, and check for unexpected downloads or installations.

Avoid returning to the suspicious page to investigate further. Use the official company’s contact information instead.

Why HTTPS Matters, Even Though It Doesn’t Guarantee Safety

HTTPS remains an essential part of safer web browsing.

It protects information in transit and helps prevent certain types of interception or tampering.

But encryption and legitimacy are not the same thing.

A trustworthy website should protect its connection, yet a protected connection alone does not make a website trustworthy.

Before making payments, entering passwords, or sharing sensitive information, take a moment to verify the address and the reason you’re being asked to act.

The padlock protects the connection. Checking the website helps protect you.

Keep reading: Blog PSafe

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Does Receiving a WhatsApp Code You Didn’t Request Mean Your Account Was Hacked?

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 21:30:04 +0000

didn’t try to log in, change phones, or register your number anywhere. It is easy to assume the worst: someone has hacked your WhatsApp account.

The good news is that receiving a WhatsApp code you didn’t request does not automatically mean your account was hacked. Someone may have entered your phone number by mistake, or a scammer may be trying to register your number on another device.

The important distinction is between an attempted account takeover and a successful one.

Myth or fact: An unexpected WhatsApp code means my account was hacked

Myth.

An unexpected verification code can indicate that someone tried to register your phone number, but receiving the code alone does not prove they gained access to your WhatsApp account.

According to the WhatsApp Help Center, if someone tries to register a WhatsApp account using your phone number, WhatsApp sends a notification and verification code to you. WhatsApp also states that without that verification code, the other person cannot complete the verification process.

So, if you received the code, did not share it, and still have normal access to WhatsApp, the message itself does not mean your account has already been compromised.

It should, however, get your attention.

Why would someone want your WhatsApp verification code?

A verification code is designed to confirm that the person registering an account has access to the associated phone number.

That makes the code valuable to scammers.

A criminal might contact you pretending to represent a company, promotion, customer support team, or even someone you know. They may claim that a code was accidentally sent to your number and ask you to send it back.

The story can change, but the objective is the same: getting you to reveal information that can help them take over an account.

The Federal Trade Commission warns that verification codes provide an additional layer of account protection and that you should never give one to someone who contacts you asking for it.

The safest rule is simple: a verification code sent to your phone stays with you.

I received a WhatsApp code I didn’t request. What should I do?

First, do not share the code with anyone.

If you did not initiate a registration or verification process, don’t use the code and don’t forward it to another person.

Be especially suspicious if someone contacts you immediately after the code arrives. A call or message explaining why you received it may be part of the scam itself.

You should also look for unusual activity, such as messages you didn’t send, unexpected account changes, loss of access, or linked devices you don’t recognize.

Enabling WhatsApp’s two-step verification can provide another layer of protection by requiring an additional PIN.

When does an unexpected code become more concerning?

A single verification code could be caused by someone entering the wrong phone number. Multiple unexpected codes, password-reset notifications, suspicious calls, or suddenly losing cellular service deserve more attention.

Criminals may test different account recovery processes before attempting a larger takeover.

The warning signs described there include verification codes for accounts the user did not try to access and unexpected account activity before a phone number takeover.

That is why it is important to distinguish “someone tried to access my WhatsApp” from “someone successfully accessed my WhatsApp.”

What if I already shared the verification code?

In that situation, the risk becomes more serious.

If you gave the code to someone and then lost access to WhatsApp, try to register your phone number again from a trusted device.

You should also warn friends, family members, and coworkers through another communication channel if someone may be impersonating you. A stolen messaging account can be used to request money, send fraudulent links, or target your contacts with new scams.

If your phone suddenly loses cellular service or you suspect someone may have transferred your number to another SIM, contact your mobile carrier through its official channels.

Avoid people who promise to “recover” your account in exchange for money, passwords, or additional verification codes.

How to protect WhatsApp from future takeover attempts

Never share verification codes received by SMS, even when the person asking for them appears to know personal information about you.

Enable two-step verification, protect your phone with a PIN or biometrics, and periodically review the devices linked to your WhatsApp account.

Also be cautious whenever someone creates urgency around a verification code. If a person claims you must provide the code immediately to prevent an account suspension, confirm a purchase, fix a registration, or receive a prize, stop the conversation and use the company’s official channels instead.

The key distinction is simple: an unexpected WhatsApp verification code is a security warning. Sharing that code can turn an unsuccessful attempt into a real account takeover.

How to Create AI Study Flashcards Without Exposing Personal Data

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 19:29:16 +0000

Creating AI study flashcards has become a quick way to turn class notes, summaries, and study materials into questions and answers for exam preparation. Artificial intelligence tools can organize large amounts of information in seconds and generate AI flashcards that are almost ready to use.

But convenience can hide an important detail: your notes may contain much more than the subject you are studying. Full names, student IDs, email addresses, information about classmates, teachers, or even documents can accidentally end up in the same prompt.

To use AI for studying while protecting your privacy, follow one simple principle: the AI needs to understand the content — not your identity.

Myth or truth: Do I need to upload all my notes for AI to create good flashcards?

Myth.

An AI tool does not need your full name, student ID, phone number, home address, or other personal information to turn study material into flashcards.

Instead of copying an entire page containing your name, school information, and other identifiers, select only the section related to the topic you want to study.

This follows the principle of data minimization: limiting personal data to what is actually necessary for a specific purpose. The Federal Trade Commission provides guidance about protecting personal information and privacy online, including precautions that can help reduce unnecessary exposure.

How to create AI flashcards more privately

Before sending your notes to ChatGPT, Gemini, or another AI study tool, take a moment to clean up the content.

Remove full names, student identification numbers, email addresses, phone numbers, home addresses, document numbers, medical information, and anything else that could identify you or another person.

Replace information that still needs to appear with generic labels. “John Smith,” for example, can become “[STUDENT].” A specific school can become “[SCHOOL].”

You should also avoid uploading an entire textbook, document, or notebook when only a few paragraphs are necessary.

Google’s Gemini Apps Privacy Hub explains how information from Gemini interactions is handled and advises users not to enter confidential information they would not want a reviewer to see or Google to use to improve its services.

A simple prompt can generate better study flashcards

Once personal data has been removed, give the AI a clear instruction:

“Turn the content below into 15 study flashcards. Put a short question on the front and a direct answer on the back. Do not add information that isn’t included in the original text.”

That final instruction is important. AI can make mistakes or generate information that was not included in your original material. Always review the cards before relying on them to study.

You can also ask for different difficulty levels: basic cards for definitions, intermediate cards for connections between concepts, and advanced cards for practical applications.

What should you never include in notes sent to AI?

Even when your goal is simply to create flashcards for studying, some information should stay out of the prompt.

Avoid passwords, authentication codes, government ID numbers, banking information, home addresses, complete school documents, or personal information belonging to classmates and teachers.

Pay attention to images too. A photo of your notebook might accidentally show your name, school identification, another student’s face, or private information in the background.

Before uploading anything, ask yourself: Does the AI actually need this information to create the flashcard?

If the answer is no, remove it.

What about using an app vault protected by a password?

True: an additional layer of protection can help.

Creating flashcards carefully protects the information you send to an AI service. But it is also important to think about what is already stored on your phone.

Study apps, files, notebook photos, and documents may remain accessible on the device. Using an app vault protected by a password, when available, can add another barrier against unwanted access.

This protection does not replace good privacy practices when using AI. Protecting an app with a password and sharing unnecessary personal information with an AI chatbot are two different security issues.

FAQ: AI flashcards and privacy

Is it safe to use AI to create study flashcards?

AI can be useful for studying, but review what you send, remove unnecessary personal information, and check AI-generated answers before using them as study material.

Can I upload a photo of my notebook to AI?

Yes, but check the image first. Crop out your name, student ID, address, other people’s faces, school information, and anything else that isn’t necessary for understanding the subject.

Can I include my classmates’ names in AI flashcards?

It’s better to avoid it. If a person’s name isn’t essential to the study material, replace it with a generic term such as “[STUDENT A]” or “[PERSON 1].”

Does AI need my name to personalize my flashcards?

Not for ordinary flashcard creation. You can provide the subject, your knowledge level, and the type of questions you want without identifying yourself.

Does deleting the AI conversation afterward solve the privacy problem?

Don’t rely on deletion as your main privacy strategy. A safer approach starts before you submit the prompt: only share information that is actually necessary.

How to Free Up Phone Storage Without Deleting Important Photos

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 18:40:02 +0000

The “storage almost full” warning tends to appear at the worst possible time — when you are trying to record a video, install an app, or save an important file. Many people immediately open their photo gallery and start deleting pictures. But learning how to free up phone storage without deleting important photos can save both space and memories.

Unused apps, downloaded videos, old documents, duplicate files, and temporary data may take up gigabytes without being obvious. Before removing family pictures, travel memories, or photos you cannot replace, find out what is actually using your storage.

In short: Check your phone’s storage breakdown first. Start with downloads, unused apps, offline media, large files, and temporary data. Review photos only after confirming that important items are safely backed up.

Check What Is Using Your Phone Storage First

Deleting random files may give you a little breathing room, but it will not solve the problem if you do not know what is filling your phone.

On Android, open Settings > Storage. Your device usually separates usage into categories such as apps, photos, videos, documents, and system files.

Google recommends reviewing those categories before removing content and explains that phone storage is different from memory used to run apps. Its official guide shows how to free up storage on an Android device.

The largest category is not always Photos. Games can download several gigabytes of additional content, streaming services may store offline media, and messaging apps can accumulate years of videos, voice notes, and documents.

Start With Downloads and Files You Forgot About

The Downloads folder is one of the safest places to begin.

Old PDFs, tickets, attachments, installers, videos, and documents may remain there long after you stopped needing them.

Sort files by size. One forgotten video can free more space than deleting dozens of small documents.

Do the same inside streaming apps. Downloaded movies, episodes, playlists, podcasts, and maps continue taking up local storage until you remove their offline copies.

Unused Apps May Be Taking Up More Space Than You Think

Do not look only at an app’s original download size.

An app that was 200 MB when installed can grow considerably as it stores downloaded content, offline files, and temporary data. Games are particularly likely to become much larger over time.

Review your apps and ask:

Have I used this app recently?
Do I have another app that does the same thing?
Is content downloaded inside it?
Can I reinstall it later if I need it?

On Android, Clear cache generally removes temporary files. Clear storage or Clear data is different and may remove locally stored information or reset the app.

Always check which option you are selecting.

Make Sure Photos Are Backed Up Before Removing Anything

Photos and videos are often the files people care about most, so they should not be the first category you delete.

If you use Google Photos, confirm that backup has finished before removing device copies. Google specifically recommends checking that your photos are safely backed up before using its storage-cleanup feature. Its official instructions explain how to free up space with Google Photos.

Also check which Google Account is currently signed in. Backup being enabled does not help if the pictures you need were uploaded to another account.

Read more: Google recently changed one desktop backup workflow. See Google Drive Stopped Photos Backup: What Changed before assuming a computer folder is still automatically sending new photos to Google Photos.

Deleting From Your Phone and Deleting From the Cloud Are Not Always the Same Thing

This distinction matters.

Depending on the app and the action you choose, deleting a photo might remove only the local copy — or it may remove the picture from a synchronized cloud library as well.

Buttons such as Delete, Free up space, Remove from device, and Move to trash should not automatically be treated as interchangeable.

Read the confirmation message before proceeding.

For irreplaceable photos, keeping another copy on a computer, external drive, or another trusted backup location provides extra protection before a major cleanup.

What About iPhone Storage?

The same general strategy applies to iPhone, although the settings are different.

Open Settings > General > iPhone Storage to see recommendations and identify which apps use the most storage.

With iCloud Photos, Optimize iPhone Storage can keep space-saving versions on your phone while storing full-resolution originals in iCloud, provided that your account has enough cloud storage.

Again, the important step is verifying that synchronization has completed before making large changes to your photo library.

Review Duplicate and Low-Value Photos Last

After removing unnecessary downloads, unused apps, and large files, you can review the gallery more selectively.

Old screenshots, blurred shots, accidental photos, and nearly identical images may be better candidates for deletion than important memories.

dfndr security’s Gallery Assistant can help organize storage information and identify repeated photos. Treat its recommendations as a starting point rather than automatic approval: review the selected files carefully before confirming deletion.

A Safer Order for Freeing Up Phone Storage

Instead of opening your gallery first, use this order:

Check the storage breakdown.
Remove old downloads.
Delete offline media you can download again.
Uninstall apps you no longer use.
Clear temporary cache where appropriate.
Find unusually large videos and files.
Verify your photo backup.
Review duplicate or unnecessary pictures last.

This sequence can free meaningful storage while reducing the risk of losing something you care about.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does clearing cache delete my photos?

Usually not. Cached files are temporary data created by apps. However, make sure you select Clear cache, not an option that clears app storage or data.

Can I delete photos from my phone after they are backed up?

Yes, but first verify that the backup is complete and understand how your chosen cloud service handles deletion. Check several photos from the cloud library before removing a large number of local copies.

What usually takes up the most phone storage?

It depends on how you use your phone. Videos, games, offline downloads, messaging attachments, and apps with accumulated data can use as much or more storage than your photo library.

Google Pics: What It Does and Who Can Use It

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 21:16:51 +0000

Google Pics began rolling out on September 1, 2026, with AI tools for creating and editing images. If you want to make a flyer or refine an illustration, your first step is checking access: the service requires an eligible account and currently works on a computer. Having a Google Account alone does not mean you can use it.
Google’s launch announcement describes image generation, editing, and collaboration, with access arriving gradually. Your personal subscription and your work account may have different eligibility. This guide explains what Pics does, why it might not appear yet, and what to check before you plan a project around it.

What can Google Pics do?

Google Pics creates and edits images using written instructions, usually called prompts. Google identifies Gemini and its Nano Banana image model as the technology behind the tool.

You can start with an idea or bring in an existing image. Google’s getting-started guide describes importing images and using references, as well as generating a new picture from a prompt.

For a hypothetical example, consider a neighborhood book exchange. You need an illustration for a flyer, so you describe a table of books under a tree. After reviewing the result, you decide whether it fits the space beside the event details. This is an example of a possible project, not a PSafe product test.

Treat the generated picture as material to review. Decide whether the subject is recognizable and whether the image helps someone understand the event. A polished appearance alone does not tell you that the wording or details are correct.

Who can use Google Pics?

Google’s current eligibility list includes personal accounts with Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra 5x or 20x. For organizations, it lists Business Standard and Plus, Enterprise Standard and Plus, AI Expanded Access, and Google AI Pro for Education.

Check the plan attached to the account you are actually using. If you subscribe personally but open a browser session with your work account, you should not assume the personal subscription applies there.

The help page also mentions Workspace Experiments, a testing program. That is a separate access route for participants, not a statement that Pics is free for every Google Account. Regional eligibility is another requirement; Google links Pics availability to regions supported by Workspace.

For a work or school account, ask your administrator to confirm eligibility and whether the service is enabled. Google’s administrator guidance explains how organizations control access. An account can meet the plan requirement while still being subject to an organization’s settings.

Why might it be missing from my work account?

Google Pics is being released in stages, so eligible users may see it at different times. The Workspace release schedule describes gradual rollout periods of up to 15 days.

Rapid Release organizations began their rollout on September 1. Scheduled Release organizations are due to begin on September 15. The latter date is a starting point, not a deadline by which every eligible user is guaranteed access.

These release tracks help explain why a colleague at another organization might receive a feature earlier. For your own account, the useful question is which schedule applies and whether the administrator has enabled the service.

Keep that organizational calendar separate from a personal subscription. Before trying to troubleshoot your computer, establish which account you are using and which availability rules apply to it.

Can I use it on my phone?

The current help documentation specifies desktop access. Plan your first attempt on a computer and check Google’s supported browsers rather than assuming that opening the site on a phone provides the full editor.

English and Portuguese are among the supported languages for generating and editing images. Individual features can have narrower coverage: the getting-started guide currently describes the style-reference feature as available in English.

Google Photos serves a different main purpose, organizing your photo library and backups. Pics focuses on creating and editing an image. When you move between those tasks, keep track of the source file and the version you intend to use.

For example, finding a photo in your library is one step; preparing it for a flyer is another. Neither step is a reason to remove the original before checking what you have saved.

Read also: Google Drive Stopped Photos Backup: What Changed.

What is arriving in Docs, Slides, and Drive?

Google announced that the Docs and Slides integration began on September 1. It is intended to let users edit images while working with a document or presentation, subject to account availability.

Drive has two distinct parts in the announcement. Creating and opening Pics files in Drive is already described. Opening and editing nearly any saved Drive image with one click is scheduled for the following weeks.

Check which capability you actually have before building a deadline around it. If you are preparing a community presentation, for example, confirm access with a small image first. That is a practical planning step, not a claim that the tool will save a particular amount of time.

Make your first attempt easy to evaluate

Choose one visual with a clear purpose. For the book-exchange example, an illustration for the top of the flyer is a manageable starting point. Keep the event wording separate while you decide whether the picture works.

Google’s prompt-writing guidance recommends describing the subject and setting, then refining the request after reviewing the output. A hypothetical prompt might be: “An illustration of books on a picnic table in a neighborhood park, with an open area above for a heading.”

Evaluate the result against your brief. Would someone recognize the books at the size you plan to print? Is there enough room for the event information? If you add wording to the image, check it against the details you intend to publish.

Make the next request specific to what needs changing. Asking for a clearer focal point gives you a change to assess; repeatedly asking for something “better” leaves the intended outcome unclear. This is a way to organize your review, not a guarantee about the model’s response.

What to check now

On your computer, confirm the active Google Account and its eligibility. For a managed account, check access and the release schedule with your administrator. Once the tool is available, try a small project and keep the original image while reviewing your edits.

If your next task is deleting or reorganizing library photos, consult the relevant Google Photos instructions first. An editing project should not become an unplanned cleanup of the files you wanted to keep.

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Phone overheating: 8 causes and how to cool it safely

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 18:17:15 +0000

A phone overheating does not always mean something is broken. Gaming, camera use, charging, weak reception, and even a software update can make a device warmer for a while. Pay closer attention when the heat starts without demanding use, continues after a break, triggers an on-screen warning, or causes the phone to shut down.

If the phone feels too hot to use, unplug it, stop the activity, and let it cool naturally in a dry, shaded, well-ventilated place. Do not use a refrigerator, freezer, ice, or water. This guide covers eight common causes, the clues that can help you narrow them down, and the signs that call for manufacturer-authorized support.

Is it normal for a phone to get hot?

It can be normal for a phone to feel warm during work that demands more from the processor, display, radios, or battery. Recording video, gaming, navigating with GPS, restoring data, and fast charging are common examples. Guidance from Google, Apple, and device manufacturers explains that a phone may temporarily reduce performance, brightness, camera functions, network activity, or charging speed to manage heat.

There is no single surface temperature that every reader can use to judge every model. Look at the context instead: what the phone was doing, how long the heat lasts, and whether warnings, limitations, or shutdowns appear.

Phone overheating: 8 common causes

1. Gaming, camera use, video, and GPS

Graphics-heavy games, high-resolution recording, streaming, and turn-by-turn navigation can keep several components active at once. The phone may warm up during the task and begin cooling after it ends.

If the heat is uncomfortable, pause the activity, lower the display brightness, and wait before starting again. Avoid opening another demanding app while the phone is still hot.

2. Apps working in the background

Photo syncing, location activity, updates, and a poorly behaving app can consume power even when it is not on screen. After the phone cools, open the battery settings and review which apps used unusual amounts of energy. Menu names vary by manufacturer and Android version.

Update or remove an app you do not recognize. Do not assume heat proves malware is present; unusual power use is a clue, not a diagnosis.

3. Fast or wireless charging and use while plugged in

A battery generates heat while accepting energy, and fast or wireless charging can make that warmth more noticeable. Gaming, video calling, or recording while charging combines two demanding activities.

Use compatible, undamaged charging equipment from a trustworthy source. If the connector, cable, charger, or battery looks damaged, stop using it and follow the device maker’s official support guidance.

4. Direct sunlight and a hot environment

A phone absorbs heat from its surroundings. A parked car, sunny windowsill, beach, tight pocket, or closed bag can make cooling difficult even when the device is not doing heavy work.

Move it into the shade and allow air to circulate. Do not try to offset environmental heat with a sudden temperature change.

5. A case that holds in heat

A well-fitted case protects a phone, but some materials or designs may slow heat dissipation during demanding use. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance. If removing the case is permitted, unplug the phone first and do not handle an internal battery.

6. Setup, updates, restores, and data transfers

After a new-device setup, backup restore, system update, or large file transfer, the phone may continue processing data in the background. The warmth should decrease after that work finishes.

If it remains hot long after completion, wait for it to cool, restart it, and check for pending system or app updates.

7. Weak reception, hotspot use, and heavy data activity

In an area with poor coverage, a phone may use more energy trying to maintain a connection. Hotspot use, long calls, 5G activity, and simultaneous uploads or downloads can also add load.

When practical, move to an area with better reception, turn off the hotspot, and pause large transfers. The goal is to reduce temporary work, not permanently disable useful features.

8. A software, battery, or hardware problem

Heat at rest, repeated shutdowns, or warmth concentrated around damaged charging equipment may point to a problem that settings cannot solve. A swollen battery, unusual odor, smoke, or physical damage calls for immediate caution.

Do not open the phone or attempt to replace an internal battery at home. Use the manufacturer’s official help center or authorized service path.

How to cool down a phone safely

If the device is very hot, use this order:

Unplug the charger and other cables.
Pause gaming, camera use, video, navigation, hotspot use, and downloads.
Move the phone to a dry, shaded, well-ventilated place.
Follow any temperature warning on the screen; power it off when the manufacturer instructs you to do so.
Let it cool naturally before charging it or restarting demanding tasks.

After it cools, review battery use, recent apps, software updates, and charging accessories. Change one factor at a time so you can see what affects the behavior.

What not to do when cooling your phone

Do not put the phone in a refrigerator or freezer or apply ice, water, or a wet cloth. Sudden cold and moisture can create condensation and damage. Avoid hair dryers, compressed air, and other aggressive airflow as well.

An app cannot physically remove heat from the device. Built-in thermal controls may already reduce power use while protecting components. Treat any app that promises instant physical cooling with skepticism.

Can phone overheating be caused by malware?

Malware or another unwanted app can contribute to unusual activity, but heat alone does not confirm an infection. Look for other signs, such as an unknown app, unexpected permissions, abnormal battery use, or behavior that persists without a clear workload.

When those signs appear, update the operating system, review installed apps, and use a reputable security scan. If the heat continues, investigate a possible physical issue separately.

When should you seek authorized service?

Use the manufacturer’s official support channel if the phone repeatedly heats up while idle, displays frequent warnings, shuts down, fails to charge normally, or shows a swollen battery, odor, smoke, physical damage, or a compromised accessory. Stop using the device while seeking guidance when there is a physical sign of battery damage.

The most useful next step is to note exactly when the heat begins. That clue helps separate temporary workload, charging equipment, environmental heat, and a persistent fault without resorting to a risky quick fix.

Sources

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Does Leaving Wi-Fi On Drain Your Phone Battery?

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 17:27:16 +0000

Do you turn Wi-Fi off whenever you leave home because you expect your battery to last longer? On a modern phone, leaving Wi-Fi enabled by itself is usually a small drain. Power use can rise when the phone scans repeatedly, struggles with a weak connection, or moves a lot of data. With a strong network, Wi-Fi may even be more efficient than 4G or 5G.

So the short verdict is: it is mostly a myth that the Wi-Fi toggle alone drains a large amount of battery. The real result depends on signal quality, apps, data traffic, location settings, and the phone itself. Here is how those states differ and how to check what is actually using your charge.

Does Wi-Fi drain battery? The short answer

Every wireless radio needs some energy, but Wi-Fi sitting idle does not work as hard as a connection carrying a video call, cloud backup, or large download.

Battery use also varies by chipset, operating system, phone maker, network quality, and background activity. That is why a universal claim such as “turning off Wi-Fi saves a specific percentage” is not reliable.

A useful rule is to leave Wi-Fi on when a trusted, strong network is available. If your phone spends hours searching where there are no useful networks, or keeps reconnecting to a weak access point, turning it off for that period may help.

Enabled, scanning, connected, and transferring are different states

Having Wi-Fi turned on can mean several very different things. When Wi-Fi is enabled but your phone is not connected to a network, power use is usually low, although the device may occasionally scan for nearby access points.

Battery use can increase when the phone repeatedly searches for networks, especially if a setting or app is triggering frequent background scans. When the phone is connected to a stable network and exchanging very little data, however, Wi-Fi power use is typically low.

That changes during activities such as streaming, downloads, and cloud backups because the phone is transferring much more data. In those situations, the activity itself has a greater impact on battery life than simply leaving the Wi-Fi toggle on.

A weak connection can also require more power. If the phone frequently loses the network, reconnects, or retries transmissions, battery use may rise. Moving closer to the router or switching to a stronger network can be more useful than simply disabling Wi-Fi.

The Android documentation for Wi-Fi scanning explains that modern Android versions limit scan frequency. Android also tracks excessive background scanning because repeated scans can wake the processor and shorten battery life.

When Wi-Fi can use more battery

Wi-Fi power use tends to grow when the phone must work harder to maintain or use the connection. Common examples include:

a weak signal that causes retries or reconnections;
apps downloading, syncing, or backing up in the background;
video, gaming, calls, or large file transfers;
frequent scans triggered by settings or apps;
constant switching between Wi-Fi and cellular service.

This does not mean every weak network causes dramatic drain. During a video call, for example, the display, camera, processor, and network transfer all use power. Blaming the entire drop on the Wi-Fi icon would miss most of the story.

Wi-Fi vs. cellular data: which uses less power?

With similarly strong signals, Wi-Fi is generally more efficient for data transfer than a cellular network. Apple’s battery guidance recommends using Wi-Fi when it is available because a Wi-Fi connection uses less power than a cellular network.

Signal quality can reverse the practical choice. A distant, unstable access point may be less efficient than strong cellular coverage. A phone in a no-service or low-service area may also spend extra energy searching for a cellular signal even when you are not actively browsing.

At home or work with a nearby router, Wi-Fi is often the efficient choice. During a road trip or commute with no trusted networks nearby, cellular service may be simpler, and temporarily disabling Wi-Fi can reduce unhelpful connection attempts.

How Wi-Fi scanning helps location on Android

Wi-Fi scanning and joining a Wi-Fi network are not the same action. A phone can use information about nearby access points to improve location without connecting to them. Android Help explains Location Accuracy as a combination of Wi-Fi, cellular networks, GPS, and sensors.

Turning scanning off may reduce some background searches, but it can also make location slower or less precise. The result is not a guaranteed battery win, because the phone may rely more heavily on another positioning method.

Before changing this setting, consider how often you use navigation, rideshare apps, device finding, or location-based automations. A setting is useful only when the tradeoff fits your routine.

How to check what is draining your phone battery

Your phone’s battery panel offers better evidence than a blanket rule.

On Android

Open Battery settings and review usage since the last full charge. Menu names vary across Pixel, Samsung, Motorola, and other devices. Compare screen time, background activity, and periods with poor signal. If one app shows unusual activity, review that app before blaming the wireless connection.

On iPhone

Open Settings, then Battery, and compare usage by app and activity. Check whether a steep drop matches screen-on time, background activity, low signal, or heavy network use.

You can also compare two similar days. Keep screen time, travel, and app use as consistent as practical. This is not a controlled lab test, but it may reveal whether Wi-Fi status makes a meaningful difference on your phone.

When turning Wi-Fi off makes sense

Temporarily switching Wi-Fi off can help when you will be away from known networks for hours, when a poor connection causes constant handoffs, or while diagnosing an unusual problem. Airplane Mode can be useful in a true no-coverage area, as long as you do not need calls or cellular data.

For routine use, you do not need to treat Wi-Fi as the main battery villain. Display brightness, heavy apps, background activity, and weak cellular coverage often deserve more attention.

Before leaving Wi-Fi off all day, check Battery Usage and compare signal, screen time, and background activity. The best answer comes from how your phone behaves, not from a one-size-fits-all myth.

Keep reading

Sources

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Does Incognito Mode Hide Everything You Do Online? Myth vs. Fact

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 16:14:27 +0000

When you open an Incognito tab, do you assume websites, internet providers, and other people can no longer see what you’re doing? Incognito mode creates that impression, but its privacy protection is much more limited than many users realize.

Private browsing is mainly designed to reduce the traces left behind on your device. It does not fully hide your IP address, approximate location, or online activity from every company involved in your connection.

So, does Incognito mode hide everything you do online? The answer is myth. Here’s what it actually keeps private—and what can still be seen.

Why Incognito Mode Causes So Much Confusion

The dark screen and “Incognito” label can make the feature feel like complete anonymity. In reality, it creates a temporary browsing session that is separate from your regular browser activity.

Google’s official Incognito mode guide explains that websites you visit, your employer or school, and your internet service provider may still be able to observe your activity.

The confusion is common. A University of Chicago study found that 27% of participants incorrectly believed private browsing protected them from viruses and malware.

What Does Incognito Mode Actually Hide?

After you close every Incognito window, Chrome generally does not keep a local record of the websites you visited, searches you entered, or cookies created during that session.

That can be useful when you’re using a shared computer, signing into an account on someone else’s device, or shopping for a gift without leaving the search in your browser history.

Mozilla’s Private Browsing guide describes a similar process: browsing history and session cookies are not saved after the private window is closed.

However, downloads and bookmarks stay on the device. Signing into an account may also allow that service to connect your activity to your profile.

What Does Incognito Mode Not Hide?

Incognito mode does not hide your IP address. Websites can still use it to recognize your connection and estimate information such as your city or general region.

Your internet service provider also remains responsible for routing your connection. On workplace or school networks, administrators may use monitoring tools to see which domains are accessed, depending on the organization’s policies.

Websites may still collect technical information, identify your browser, and use tracking technologies. The Federal Trade Commission explains how websites and apps use cookies, pixels, and device fingerprinting to recognize users and monitor online activity.

Incognito mode also does not block phishing sites, fake pages, malware, or dangerous downloads. It only limits how certain information is stored locally.

How to Improve Your Online Privacy and Security

Use Incognito mode when you want to keep searches and account activity out of the browser history on that specific device. On a shared computer, close every private window before leaving and never allow the browser to save your password.

Review browser permissions, block third-party cookies when possible, and be cautious when a website asks for information it does not need. You should also confirm that the address uses HTTPS, although the padlock icon alone does not prove a website is legitimate.

Before opening a URL sent by text message or email, it helps to keep another security layer active. Anti-Hacking in dfndr security can analyze suspicious pages and warn you about possible threats before you visit them, adding protection alongside careful browsing habits.

Myth vs. Fact: Does Incognito Mode Make You Invisible?

Myth.

Incognito mode improves privacy on your device because it prevents some browsing history and session cookies from remaining after you close the window. It does not stop websites, ISPs, employers, schools, or services you sign into from recognizing your activity.

Think of Incognito mode as a curtain that hides activity from the next person using your device—not an invisibility cloak for the internet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Incognito Mode Save Your Browsing History?

The browser normally does not keep the session in its local history after every Incognito window is closed. Downloads, bookmarks, and records stored outside the browser may remain.

Can Your Internet Provider See Incognito Browsing?

Incognito mode does not prevent your ISP from routing your connection or accessing information related to that traffic under its policies and applicable rules.

Does Incognito Mode Protect You From Viruses?

No. Private browsing is not antivirus protection and does not automatically block fake websites, phishing attempts, malicious files, or dangerous downloads.

Conclusion

Incognito mode is useful for reducing traces on your device, but it does not provide complete online anonymity. For stronger online privacy, combine private browsing with careful permission settings, strong passwords, cautious link handling, and protection against malicious websites.

Does Deleting Photos From Your Phone Delete Them From Google Photos? Myth vs. Fact

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 16:28:39 +0000

Your phone storage is full. You select a batch of old pictures, tap the trash icon, and assume they’ll stay safely stored in the cloud. Later, you open Google Photos and realize some of those memories are gone.

That happens because deleting photos from your phone can lead to different results depending on the app and command you use. Deleting a picture through Google Photos is not the same as selecting “Delete from device” or using “Free up space on this device.”

Does deleting photos from your phone delete them from Google Photos?

It depends on where and how you delete them.

When you delete a backed-up photo using the trash button inside Google Photos, the deletion is synced with your Google Account and other connected devices that have backup turned on.

According to Google’s official instructions for deleting photos and videos, deleting an item through Google Photos removes both the cloud copy and the copy stored on your device. Backed-up content is also removed from other devices connected to the same account.

So, assuming every photo will automatically stay in the cloud after you delete it from your phone is a mistake.

Why deleting photos from your gallery can affect your backup

Google Photos uses synchronization. Once the backup is complete, the image displayed in the app is connected to the copy saved in your Google Account.

That means tapping the regular trash icon can tell Google Photos to remove the file from your entire library—not just from your phone.

The result may also depend on your phone’s gallery app, the permissions you granted, and which folders are included in the backup. Before deleting anything, use Google’s guide to check whether your Google Photos backup is complete and confirm that you’re viewing the correct Google Account.

How to delete photos from your phone without deleting them from Google Photos

To remove only the copy stored on your phone, open the image in Google Photos, tap the three-dot menu, and select “Delete from device.”

This option removes the local file while preserving the version that has already been backed up to the cloud.

Don’t use the regular trash button for this purpose. You should also confirm that the image shows a completed backup status. Photos from text messages, screenshots, and downloaded files may be stored in folders that were never selected for backup.

How to free up phone storage without losing photos

When hundreds of photos and videos are taking up space, the easiest option may be “Free up space on this device.”

The feature identifies photos and videos that have already been backed up and removes their local copies. You can still view those files in the Google Photos app or at the Google Photos website.

Google recommends confirming that your files are backed up before using the tool. Its official Free up space instructions explain that removed items may no longer appear in your phone’s built-in gallery or while you’re offline.

If sorting through all this manually feels like too much, Gallery Assistant in dfndr security can help. It shows how much space photos, videos, and other files are taking up on your phone, and automatically flags blurry, duplicate, or low-quality images worth deleting — without touching anything already safely backed up to the cloud. You can also schedule these suggestions to run daily or weekly.

What to do if the photo has already been deleted

Open Google Photos, tap Collections, and select Trash.

Backed-up photos and videos usually remain there for up to 60 days. Items that were not backed up may be permanently removed after 30 days.

If the file is still available, select it and tap “Restore.” Google’s official guide explains how to recover recently deleted photos and videos. Once an item has been permanently deleted or the recovery period has ended, it may no longer be recoverable.

Keep reading on the PSafe Blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I delete every photo from my phone after backing them up?

Use “Delete from device” or “Free up space on this device.” Before removing anything, confirm that the backup is complete and that the files are stored in the correct Google Account.

Does turning off backup prevent my photos from being deleted?

Not necessarily. Files synchronized earlier may still be affected by certain actions. Check where the image is stored and which deletion command you’re using.

So, is it a myth or a fact?

It’s partly true. Deleting a photo with the regular Google Photos trash button can remove it from both your phone and the cloud. Choosing “Delete from device” preserves the backup and removes only the local copy.

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2026 World Cup Final on your phone: how to save battery and mobile data

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:36:46 +0000

The second half starts, the match is still tied, and your phone is down to 15% battery. Then another alert appears: you’re close to your cellular data limit. At that point, knowing how to save battery and cellular data could determine whether you make it to the final whistle.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final will take place on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium. If you plan to watch on your phone, prepare the device before opening the stream instead of scrambling to change settings during the match. You can confirm the date and venue on FIFA’s official New York New Jersey page.

Why Does Streaming the Final Use So Much Battery and Data?

Watching a live match requires your phone to keep the screen on, play video continuously, and maintain a network connection. High brightness, maximum resolution, an unstable cellular signal, and other open apps can increase power use even more.

Video quality also directly affects your data usage. The higher the resolution, the more data the stream needs to transfer. On a smaller screen, switching from high definition to a midrange setting can preserve the viewing experience while using less data.

How to Save Battery and Cellular Data Before Kickoff

Charge your phone ahead of time and update the official streaming app while connected to a trusted Wi-Fi network. Pause automatic downloads, photo backups, and system updates as well.

On Android, turn on Battery Saver and lower your screen brightness. Google’s official Android battery guide recommends limiting background activity, reducing brightness, and avoiding extended use of features that keep the screen and network connection active.

How to Use Less Cellular Data During the Final

Open the streaming app’s settings and choose a midrange video resolution. Turn off video autoplay in social media apps, and avoid running multiple score, messaging, and video apps at the same time.

On supported Android phones, Google’s Data Saver limits background data access for most apps. On iPhone, Apple’s Low Data Mode reduces background activity, automatic backups, and the quality of some streamed content.

How to Save Battery Without Missing the Biggest Plays

Lower the brightness to a comfortable level, turn off keyboard vibration, and disable Bluetooth and location services when you do not need them. Avoid opening the camera repeatedly or recording long sections of your screen.

iPhone users can turn on Low Power Mode, which reduces background activity, visual effects, and automatic downloads. On Android, the feature’s name and location may vary depending on the manufacturer.

Avoid Heat and Unreliable Chargers

Long streaming sessions can heat up your phone, especially when it is sitting in direct sunlight, trapped inside a heavy case, or connected to a low-quality charger. Heat can drain the battery faster and temporarily reduce performance.

Place your phone on a ventilated surface and use reliable accessories. If the battery is running very low, a charged power bank can help—just make sure the phone does not stay covered or boxed in while you use it.

How to Stream the Final More Safely

Look for the broadcast through official apps and websites. Links shared in group texts, comments, or ads may lead to fake pages, registration forms, or dangerous downloads. The PSafe Blog explains how to tell legitimate World Cup streams from dangerous links.

Keeping dfndr security active adds another layer of protection while you browse, receive messages, and search for match information. Technology should still be combined with careful link checking and the use of official channels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Lower Video Quality Really Save Cellular Data?

Yes. Lower resolutions require less data transfer. A midrange quality setting is usually enough to follow the match comfortably on a phone screen.

Do Bluetooth Headphones Drain a Lot of Battery?

They use some power to maintain the wireless connection, but the screen and video stream usually have a greater impact. When every percentage point matters, wired headphones may help.

Is It Better to Use Wi-Fi or Cellular Data?

A trusted private Wi-Fi network keeps the stream from using your cellular data plan. On public networks, confirm the network name and avoid opening banking apps, making payments, or entering passwords.

Why Updating Android Helps Protect Your Phone, Even When Nothing Looks Different

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 18:27:01 +0000

Have you ever put off an Android update because you figured nothing would really change on your phone? The screen looks the same, the icons do not change, and no new feature shows up. So the question is fair: why update Android if, on the surface, nothing seems different?

The answer is simple: updating Android helps protect your phone because most of the important improvements happen behind the scenes. They may not show up as a new feature, but they fix bugs, strengthen permissions, and close security gaps that could be exploited by scammers or malicious apps.

Not every layer of protection is visible. Sometimes, the most important change is the one that stops a problem before you ever notice it.

Why Updating Android Protects You Even Without a Visual Change

An Android update can fix vulnerabilities — flaws that may allow unauthorized access to data, the installation of dangerous apps, or the exploitation of parts of the system.

Google publishes monthly Android Security Bulletins with fixes and patch levels. That shows how Android security depends on constant adjustments, even when you do not notice any change in how your phone looks.

That is why a “small” update can matter more than it seems. It may not change your camera, keyboard, or home screen, but it can close a security gap you did not even know existed.

What Changes Inside Android

Android is made up of several layers: the operating system, permissions, apps, connectivity, browser, Google services, and privacy features. An update can improve any of these parts.

In practice, that includes:

Stability and performance fixes
● Adjustments to app permission controls
● Improvements against suspicious behavior
● Stronger internal security components

If you use your phone for banking, text messages, shopping, and documents, these layers make a real difference. You can check your system version and security update level by following Google’s official instructions to check and update your Android version, directly in your phone’s settings.

Updating Also Helps Against Dangerous Apps

Many risks do not show up as a traditional “virus.” An app may try to abuse permissions, access data it does not need, or pretend to be something trustworthy.

Keeping the system updated helps strengthen the barriers that control how apps behave. Google also maintains Google Play Protect, a feature that checks apps and devices for harmful behavior.

Before installing an app, accepting permissions, or ignoring a warning, think about the full picture: an updated system, trusted apps, and safe habits. In that routine, dfndr security works as an extra layer of protection, helping you take a more preventive approach when using your phone.

Want to install apps with more peace of mind? dfndr security’s Safe App Installation protects your phone during app installation by checking app safety, and keeps watching afterward to make sure installed apps remain trustworthy.

Why Some Updates Arrive Separately

Not every fix appears as a major Android system update. Some components are updated separately through Google services, the Play Store, or your phone manufacturer — which is why it is common to see “silent” updates that bring security improvements without requiring a full system update.

It is also worth keeping your apps up to date, either manually or with automatic updates turned on in the Play Store.

How to Know If Your Phone Is Better Protected

The first step is to check whether an update is available. On Android, look for “System,” “Software update,” or “Security” in your settings — the name can vary depending on your phone brand.

Also check the security patch level, which shows the date through which your phone has received fixes. The more recent it is, the better the protection tends to be against already known flaws.

Another important step is using compatible and certified devices. Google explains how to check and fix Play Protect certification status, which helps confirm whether your device meets security and compatibility requirements.

Habits That Protect More Than an Update Alone

Updating Android is essential, but it should not be your only safety step. Phone security depends on several small everyday decisions:

Use a strong screen lock, such as a PIN, password, or biometrics
● Keep your apps updated
● Download apps only from trusted sources
● Review permissions often — be suspicious of simple apps that ask for access to contacts, location, or microphone without a clear reason
● Avoid clicking links received by text message, especially when there is urgency, a prize offer, or a request for personal data

Updates fix technical flaws, but many scams exploit urgency, distraction, and trust — and no update can solve that by itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will updating Android delete my files?
Usually, no. Official updates should not delete photos, conversations, or documents. Even so, it is a good idea to keep an updated backup before installing a major update.

Do I need to update even when my phone is working fine?
Yes. A phone can work normally and still have security flaws that are only fixed through updates. Not every risk appears as an error, slowdown, or crash.

What should I do if my Android no longer receives updates?
Be extra careful with apps, links, permissions, and passwords. If your device stopped receiving security patches a long time ago, consider replacing it — especially if you use banking apps and store digital documents on your phone.

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5-Minute Monthly Phone Check: What to Review on Android

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 19:28:17 +0000

You unlock your phone to answer a quick text and, without even noticing it, pass through a mess of digital clutter: apps you have not used in months, stacked notifications, forgotten files, and permissions you may not even remember approving.

When was the last time you actually reviewed your phone? Not just deleted duplicate photos, but checked which apps are still installed, which accounts are still signed in, and which access points are still active on your device.

This simple checkup can help improve privacy, reduce distractions, and lower risks that often go unnoticed in everyday use. The best part: you can do a basic review once a month in about 5 minutes.

Why review your phone once a month?

Your phone holds conversations, photos, documents, bank accounts, social media, email, and work apps. That means small oversights can pile up over time.

An app you installed “just to test” may still have location access. An old account may still be signed in. A forgotten app may be taking up storage, draining battery, or keeping permissions that no longer make sense.

On Android, Google explains how users can change app permissions on their phone, including access to the camera, microphone, location, contacts, and files. That setting helps you see which apps use sensitive parts of your device and remove old access you no longer want.

Start with apps you barely use

Open your app list and look for anything you have not used in weeks. Old games, promo apps, duplicate tools, and services you tried once are good candidates for removal.

Besides freeing up space, deleting what no longer makes sense reduces distractions and cuts down the number of apps with access to your device. This is especially useful when you install apps for shopping, travel, or one-time tasks.

It is also worth checking for apps with similar names, strange icons, or functions you do not recognize. If something feels off, search before opening it or keeping it installed.

Review permissions before they become a habit

Permissions are approvals an app asks for to access parts of your phone, such as the camera, microphone, location, contacts, and files. Not every permission is dangerous, but not every permission is necessary.

A maps app needs your location to work well. A simple game probably does not need access to your contacts. That is the kind of difference worth checking during your monthly review.

Google also explains that Android lets you manage permissions through the Privacy Dashboard, a feature that shows which apps recently accessed sensitive permissions and helps you adjust that access.

This is where an extra layer of protection can help. dfndr security supports a safer routine by helping users identify risks on their phone, but a manual review still matters if you want to stay in control of what each app can access.

Check connected accounts and open sessions

Another quick step is to check where your accounts are signed in. Social media, email, and messaging apps often show active sessions on computers, tablets, or older phones.

If you see a device you do not recognize, sign it out and change your password. It is also worth turning on two-factor authentication whenever possible, because it adds an extra confirmation step before access is allowed.

This matters even more if you recently sold, traded in, lost, or lent someone your phone. A forgotten session can keep an account accessible on a device you no longer control.

Watch storage, battery, and notifications

Not every monthly review has to be about risk. Organization also protects your routine.

Check which apps use the most battery, which take up the most space, and which send too many notifications. Sometimes your phone feels slow not because of one major issue, but because of too many files, alerts, and apps running when they do not need to.

It is also worth checking whether Google Play Protect is active on Android. According to Google, the feature checks apps and devices for harmful behavior, can warn you about potentially harmful apps, and helps protect the device from unsafe behavior.

How to do the monthly review in 5 minutes

The review can be simple. Start by removing apps you no longer use. Then check camera, microphone, location, and contact permissions to see which apps still have access to those resources.

Next, make sure your main accounts are signed in only on devices you recognize. If you find a strange session, sign it out, change the password, and turn on an extra authentication layer when the service offers it.

After that, look at which apps are using the most battery or storage, and silence notifications that do not help your routine. Finally, delete old files, forgotten downloads, and suspicious messages that stayed saved for no good reason.

The FTC also offers guidance on protecting personal information on devices and online accounts, reinforcing the importance of taking care of the data spread across your apps, accounts, and digital services.

This small routine does not require technical knowledge. The goal is to take back control: know what is installed, what can access your data, and what really needs to stay on your phone.

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I Can’t Afford to Upgrade My Phone, What Can I Do?

Fri, 17 Aug 2018 19:44:26 +0000

If you’re hoping to upgrade your phone but dang, your budget is tight, there are still ways to improve your phone’s performance without breaking the bank. With the right app, you can increase your phone’s speed and reduce lag time on a budget. There’s a lot that dfndr performance can do for your device, which we’ll talk about below. But, meanwhile, download it:

Delete Old Files
One of the main ways that devices slow down over time is when you download too many apps, take too many pictures and videos, or save tons of files. There’s an easy way to get rid of old files and clean out your device’s storage capacity — dfndr performance has a handy quick cleaner feature.

The feature helps to remove junk files from your phone, while also cleaning the cache, any temporary files, and other stored data that’s hogging up phone space. By clearing up internal space and on your SD card, your phone will run faster.

Ditch Those Duplicate Photos
We often take multiple pictures of the same object (including ourselves) on a quest for the perfect picture. However, many of us fail to delete those duplicate photos once we’ve posted the image on social media and promptly forget about it. The duplicate photos feature identifies repeated photos on your device and offers you the choice of which ones to delete and which ones to keep. (But remember, the aim is to get rid of pics, so try to keep only 1 copy!)

Use One App at a Time
A common problem that Android users have is there are multiple apps running in the background, which stresses the RAM memory and slows down a device. dfndr performance’s speed boost feature can identify which apps are running at once and close them to speed up your phone. This can also help reduce the amount of lockups and crashes when out and about using your device.

Hate Notifications? We Do Too
We have all dealt with too many notifications popping up on our smartphones. Control which notifications are sent to your “do not disturb” list and have the ability to view and clean junk notifications with one touch with notification cleaner. Activating this will unbog your phone and keep it clutter free. Pretty nifty, right?

With these tips, we hope you’re convinced that a performance app like dfndr is exactly what your budget needs to keep that ol’phone happy.

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The Best Apps for Father’s Day

Thu, 14 Jun 2018 12:00:07 +0000

Father’s Day is on June 17 and it’s the perfect time to give back to your dad with mobile apps that will make his life easier. There’s an app for just about everything these days and the ones we recommend are geared towards appeasing your father’s musical taste, helping him find the perfect brisket recipe, or facilitating his search for the ideal home.

Read more to learn which 5 best apps your dad deserves on Father’s Day.

Get Dad to Download StubHub
One of the most popular apps of the last 5 years has been StubHub, which compares ticket prices from various websites in order to find your dad the best deal. Whatever his musical taste or favorite sport may be, StubHub can be tailored to find tickets for the right event on any given night. The app can be linked to your dad’s Spotify, plus it can connect to various e-payment platforms to ensure every transaction is hassle-free.

Help Dad Find His Dream Home
If your father is on the hunt for some new real estate, Zillow.com will help him find a more comfortable home for the entire family. The home search app has an intuitive and logical user interface to search for the ideal home based on your dad’s price range. It can also help him sell his current home by valuing properties in his neighborhood.

For the BBQ Hero of Your Life
If your dad loves to grill meats, check out hundreds of recipes on the Weber Grills app. Each recipe has step-by-step instructions, a built-in grill timer, and a grocery list feature to keep your father’s grilling days organized.

When Your Dad is Mad About Sports
Perhaps the hottest sports app at the moment is Bleacher Report, which offers timely scores and news in football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and just about any sport imaginable. The app can be programmed to fit your dad’s interests so he gets notified of the latest stats for his favorite teams.

Improve Your Dad’s Mobile Performance
The best app for optimizing your dad’s mobile device is dfndr performance, which has a quick cleanup feature that gets rid of old files that could be slowing down his phone. It also has an app manager function to remove unused apps he no longer needs. A memory booster feature can enhance his device’s RAM speed as well. After all, you have to help him make room for all these awesome apps.

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Astro: The AI app That Can Help Manage Your Inbox

Sun, 04 Mar 2018 22:00:11 +0000

Cleaning out your phone once in a while is always a good idea, because apps and files can add up quickly. While you’re having Astro clean up your inbox, you may as well clean out your entire phone. Use dfndr performance’s App Manager feature to quickly identify unwanted apps and uninstall them in one screen. Try it right now:

App Manager will free up tons of space on your phone for new photos, videos, and apps — like Astro — so you can enjoy a decluttered phone experience.

The Benefits of Astro
Maybe you’re interested in the idea of using artificial intelligence to clean up your email inbox and free up some space, but you’re afraid that the AI will delete emails you wanted to keep. Don’t worry, Astro is truly intelligent and it is the first email app that comes with a built in chatbot to talk to you. Astro will chat with you, and recommend to you what you should unsubscribe from, what to save, and which contacts you should make VIP. The app asks your permission before deleting things so you will never wake up to a string of important work emails being erased from your inbox.

Astro is designed to make your life easier. It has Astrobot Voice and Alexa. This makes it easy to read your emails aloud using Alexa on the Amazon Echo or your phone. This is a great benefit of Astro because you can now hear important emails when you’re on-the-go or driving. It’s also supported by Gmail and Office 365, so no matter what email provider you use, Astro is there to help you and clean up your inbox.

Where You Can Download Astro
You can download Astro from the Google Play store. In addition to downloading it from this store, you can also add Astro to Slack because it has full Slack integration. This means that you can add Slack search and Slack email so that you can manage your email from your Slack app. Another place you can use Astro is on the Amazon Echo, also known as Alexa. This way you can give commands to Alexa, and Astro will go in and complete those commands in your email inbox.

Overall, if you want a cleaner inbox, why stop there? Clean up the rest of your phone with App Manager to make space on your phone for new applications and pictures. A phone free of clutter is a more efficient phone.

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Does Facebook Messenger Slow Your Phone Down?

Sat, 03 Feb 2018 13:00:31 +0000

If you have the Facebook app, you’ve likely also downloaded Messenger. In fact, it’s almost impossible to even access your Facebook messages without downloading the additional messenger app, unless you resort to only looking at them on your computer. When it comes to easily getting in contact with people, there’s one mobile app that reigns supreme — even more so than your standard SMS text messaging program — and that’s Facebook Messenger. But Messenger can quickly bloat with files. Cut down those videos or photos by using dfndr security’s facebook messenger cleaner to free up space now:

This dfndr security feature will remove all of the GIFs, photos, and audio files that have built up over time, causing your Messenger app to swell and slow down your phone. By removing these files, you’ll experience better performance on your phone and on the app itself.

As long as you have a reliable Wi-Fi connection, Messenger is probably the quickest and easiest way to get in touch with another person digitally — and the most fun, considering all of it’s new features. All-in-all, Messenger is not a bad app to have, but it’s also well-known for taking up a lot of your phone’s memory. Since it’s one of the larger apps you can download, can — and will — it slow down your phone’s performance?

Picture this: you have an emergency situation and the signal in the area you’re in isn’t great. However, if you have access to Wi-Fi or can, at the very least, turn the Wi-Fi off and still access the Internet, Facebook Messenger is your best option for reaching an important contact. Unfortunately, the very thing that can help you reach the help you need is also slowing your phone down to a crawl.

Sure, that may be an extreme situation, but it still doesn’t change the fact that it’s important to know how a big file app like Facebook Messenger can affect your phone’s abilities. It is very possible that, due to the large size of the Facebook Messenger app, it can slow down your phone, especially while sending messages in-app. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll need to delete your Facebook Messenger.

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Here Are the Smart New Additions to Google’s Gboard

Sat, 27 Jan 2018 13:00:32 +0000

As far as keyboard apps go, Google’s Gboard can hold its own against the rest of them. It is one of the highest-rated keyboard apps available from the Play store, and for good reason — it has plenty of exciting built-in features like Google Search, Glide typing, voice typing, emoji search, and Google Translate.

As technology for smartphones has increased in many areas, Google has added new features to their Gboard, which is making everyone excited about the new accessibility they have when using it. With many of these new features being top of the line and made for usability, they continue to add new features that will make life a bit simpler — and more fun! Continue reading to learn more about some of the latest features to come to the Gboard messaging app.

YouTube
YouTube provides users with the ability to choose video clips and send them to those that they’re messaging. These are beneficial for multiple reasons, but they make searching for that funny video to share a breeze.

Google Maps
Want to share your location with those on the other end of the phone? This new Gboard feature allows you to do so. Instead of having to ask them where they are, they can turn their location sharing services on and you will always know.

Phrase Suggestions
As with many messaging apps, phrase suggestions are common. You now only have to type out a short bit of what you want to say and Google will give you phrase suggestions. If they match what you want, you can click on them and send the message without having to type it all out.

Drawing Capabilities
Want to doodle with your friends? This new feature allows users to doodle and then send their friends messages. Draw an emoji and you will send them one from the emoji keyboard. Some like to draw with their fingers, others enjoy using a stylus for this new, cool feature.

Google Gboard is a great way to get more usability out of the messaging that you love. If you want to make your texts more personal, this is the best app for the job. Android users now can enjoy multiple additions that make messaging more user-friendly, exciting, and fun. If you’re looking for a new keyboard app for your Android, don’t hesitate to give Gboard a go.

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Are Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat Killing Your Battery?

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 13:00:33 +0000

If you find that your phone’s battery is constantly dying on you, then you may want to look into your phone’s battery usage by app. Are Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat responsible for your dead battery?

Whether or not they’re the reason, the best way to keep your battery from dying is to take advantage of dfndr’s powerpro. powerpro will make your phone battery last longer by allowing you to see which of your phone’s applications are using the most energy. It can then close the apps that are draining your battery, and offer suggestions for improving your phone’s battery life.

Instagram
You may be wondering how Instagram can be draining your battery even when you’re not using it that often. Many people are not aware that, even though they aren’t looking at Instagram, it is still running in the background. The only way to be sure that Instagram isn’t running in the background is to fully close the app instead of just exiting it. Another aspect of Instagram that could be draining your battery is the location feature. If you have given Instagram permission to your location, then Instagram will be constantly searching for your location even when you’re not using the app. The best way to get rid of this is by going to the Instagram permissions and turning off location.

Facebook
One reason Facebook is draining so much battery is because the app is constantly updating with new information behind the scenes. In order to stop Facebook from draining your battery, you need to turn off the “background app refresh” permission. This “background app refresh” is the reason that every app, particularly social media and news apps, are constantly updating with new information. By turning this off, this will save you battery. App developers like to have frequent updates, so apps like Facebook could be secretly updating all day and draining your battery life.

Snapchat
A great way to reduce how much battery Snapchat is using is by turning Snapchat on “Travel Mode” in the app’s settings. By turning it to travel mode, Snapchat will run less in the background and save you battery. Another thing that really drains your battery is using the snapchat camera all day. The camera uses a ton of battery life and can really drain your phone battery if you have it open for long periods of time throughout the day.

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Why Does Your Phone Notify You When It’s Fully Charged

Tue, 19 Dec 2017 00:00:17 +0000

Sometimes when your smartphone is charging, you can walk away from it if the outlet isn’t nearby, or forget about it as you get busy with other things. Forgetting about it can easily overcharge your battery. First, keep your phone nearby to monitor the charging process. Second, consider activating the total charge feature to notify you that your phone is fully charged enough and should be unplugged:

While the total charge feature is a smart solution, you may be wondering why it’s important that your phone alerts you when the battery is charged, read on for the primary reasons.

It Has Stopped Charging
Many people may not know that your phone will stop charging once it reaches full battery. Once your battery is fully charged on your smartphone, the charging circuit will disconnect. This means that the charging circuit will not reconnect until the battery level on your phone has dropped to 95% or lower. This happens to prevent phones from charging once they’re at full battery. Your phone will issue a notification that it has reached full charging so that you know that your phone will no longer be charging.

However, with some phones, there isn’t a risk of leaving your phone on the charger once it’s reached full battery. The phone will simply stop charging until the battery lifes begins to dip down and then once it’s low enough, it will begin charging again.

So You Know When It’s Done
This one is the most obvious, but your phone notifies you so that you know when to unplug it. If your phone didn’t notify you when it reaches full battery, you might not know when to unplug it and use your phone. It simply makes things much easier. You can also use Total Charge to monitor your phone’s charging process and alert you when it’s done:

It Could Overheat
Some people have noticed that their phone tends to get hot while it’s on the charger. In order to prevent your processor from running overtime and heating up, you may want to take your phone off the charger. This is why your phone notifies you when your battery is fully charged. It’s difficult to tell if your phone’s battery or your charger is the reason your phone is overheating so if you notice your phone gets hot when charging, unplug it and take it to get looked at by a professional.

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These Are the Best Online Messaging Apps

Sun, 17 Dec 2017 13:00:30 +0000

With more complicated messaging apps come apps that take up more phone storage. Some of the most exciting features on these apps are those that demand good phone performance, so keeping your phone at optimal performance is crucial. If you’re a fan of Messenger, you’ll want to take advantage of the facebook messenger cleaner feature that will clear GIFs, audio files, photos, and more that take up a lot of space. Click here to get more free space on your phone:

SMS messages — or what many might think of as old-fashioned texting — might be the most tried and true way to send messages to friends, but as smartphone technology continues to advance, SMS is starting to seem more and more like a relic of the past. From stickers, to chat filters, to augmented reality, innovative messaging apps have been making big advances.

Messenger
One of the oldest apps on the market, Messenger has made the wise choice of quickly adapting to new trends in messaging apps. Some of its earliest innovations, like sending chat stickers, quickly became the norm across many apps, and new features like chat colors and nicknames allow a personalized touch for every conversation. Messenger has also made some bigger leaps over the past year by adding augmented reality filters to its video-calling, photography modes, and message reacts. These newest add-ons make it not only a good option, but one of the most comprehensive messaging apps on the market.

GroupMe
Despite lacking the bells and whistles of some of its competitors, GroupMe has something some competitors do not — the ability to add non-smartphone users to a group chat. This makes it an outstanding option for Android users who want to start a group chat with older family members or co-workers who have yet to get a smart phone. Furthermore, since it is intended to be used almost exclusively as a group chat app, it is easy for users to keep track of all group chats in one organized place. This added convenience helps reduce the overwhelming feeling of too many notifications from hyperactive group chats.

Snapchat
Primarily known as a photo-sharing app, Snapchat has evolved to compete with other messaging apps. With unique stickers and a Bitmoji tie-in to its chatting interface, Snapchat adds a fun and inviting twist to messaging. Like photos sent over the app, messages will disappear, too. While this makes it less viable as a platform for long-term conversations, it makes it a good option for quick check-ins and reactions to life events people post.

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Does It Matter If You Leave Your Phone to Charge Overnight?

Sat, 02 Dec 2017 23:00:23 +0000

How much thought do you give to charging your phone? Probably not that much, especially if your phone is brand-new and still working rather efficiently. But if you wear out your phone during the day, only to leave it plugged in to charge all night while you’re asleep, then you’re actually shortening the lifespan of your beloved new smartphone. It’s time to pay more attention to your charging process so that you can get the most out of your new phone — and keep it working like new for years. Click here to use Total Charge to monitor your phone’s charging process:

Total Charge shows you which stage of the charging process your phone is in and how long it’ll take to charge your phone. It’ll then alert you whenever it’s done charging, so that you don’t have to worry about damaging your phone. This is important because leaving your phone plugged in after it’s reached 100% can lead to overcharging, which can cause your phone to overheat. It can also cause battery damage, which will shorten your phone’s overall lifespan and how well it works.

The Main Issue with Charging Your Phone Overnight
If your phone seems to be fine whenever you charge it overnight, that doesn’t necessarily mean it is fine. The real issue with leaving your phone plugged in is that doing so can affect your battery’s health. It can reduce the lifespan and quality of your battery — a disappointing reality if you just dropped a lot of money on a new phone. While you may not see the effects of this decision immediately, you’ll start to see it over time. Then you’ll be stuck with a phone that doesn’t hold a charge or continuously freezes when you have a year left on your phone contract.

Is Your Phone Prone to Overheating?
Overcharging used to be a major issue for cell phones, but as technology has improved, it has become less of a problem. However, that doesn’t mean you should leave your phone plugged in for long periods of time, especially if your phone is older or if you’re using an off-brand or cheap phone charger. Pay attention to how your phone responds to charging (with the assistance of Total Charge). If it gets hot after reaching 100%, then you know you need to immediately unplug your phone after it’s done charging to avoid immediate battery damage.

An overheating phone — whether caused by overcharging or a poor-quality charger — could also spark or start a fire. Additionally, you should steer clear of “fast chargers,” which can cause your phone to rapidly overheat, which will further damage your phone’s battery life.

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Doubleswitch: The Newest Social Media Hacking Tactic

Wed, 22 Nov 2017 23:00:44 +0000

With the advancements in tech, security, and innovation, hackers are finding new ways to not only compromise credit cards or computers, but also social network accounts and apps. That’s why it’s important to ensure that all of your social media accounts are protected, because they are likely holding sensitive information. Use the social guardian feature to lock your social media accounts with an extra password right now:

The Newest Social Media Hacking Tactic
It was only a matter of time before hackers were able to find newer and more clever ways to take over and steal people’s social media accounts. In this, one of the newest social media hacking tactics is known as double-switching. This is simply when a hacker infiltrates a social media account, alters the user’s name, password, email, and any other pertinent information, preventing the account holder from ever accessing that account again.

Knowing that thousands of companies and important public figures utilize social media accounts, hackers have targeted social media accounts in efforts to spread fake news or their personal agenda. The most popular case of public double-switching has been reported in Venezuela where numerous journalists, human rights activists, and many others lost their social media accounts and could not recover them.

Protect Your Social Media Accounts
Reading this information could cause a stir or worry for anyone on social media networks. It’s important though to make sure that you are constantly updating your password, choosing alternatives that are difficult and near impossible for a hacker to uncover. On top of this, if a social media network, or even an app like WhatsApp, is holding personal information and offers for multiple-authentication methods, it is smart to enroll in these options. By doing so, double-switching is ineffective and counterproductive.

So, the lesson is: use the right protective tools to optimize your privacy and peace of mind while using social apps. There is no greater feeling in the world than knowing that your private information is safe away from the hands of hackers.

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Which Stores Use (and Don’t Use) Android Pay?

Mon, 20 Nov 2017 23:00:59 +0000

Have you started using your mobile device to pay whenever you’re going in and out of stores? It’s quite the convenience, and we really are lucky to have this technology at the tip of our fingertips. Android Pay is just one more convenience that makes life easier, but you may be wondering which stores accept this form of payment, and whether or not it’s safe to use it at certain places. Read on to learn all the spots where you can shop without even taking your wallet out!

Clothing Stores
There are an abundance of clothing stores that allow you to simply flash your phone for payment. This may include some of your favorites, like Barney’s New York, American Eagle Outfitters, Bloomingdale’s, Kohl’s, and Aeropostale. Whenever you’re shopping for some new favorite options, this is the perfect way to pay so that you can breeze through the mall with ease.

Home Stores
It’s always fun to add new and trendy items to your home, and now you can pay for them with Android Pay at many of your favorite stores. For instance, Crate and Barrel accepts Android Pay; it is the perfect spot to grab all of the furniture and home accessories your heart desires.

Food Spots
When you’re hungry, you want your food as quickly as possible. Make checking out at food establishments easier by paying with Android Pay. Spots such as Fuddrucker’s, Dunkin Donuts, KFC, McDonald’s, White Castle, and Jamba Juice all accept this form of payment, making it easier than ever to eat on the go!

Grocery Stores
Food shopping can be enough of a chore without the added hassle of having to dig for your wallet, cash, or credit card. Make it simpler by paying with Android Pay at a range of your favorite grocery stores. This includes Stop & Shop, Jewel Osco, Whole Foods, Fresh Market, Shaw’s, and Save Mart Supermarkets. You’ll be on your way with your groceries in no time.

How Safe is Android Pay?
You’re probably wondering if it’s safe to use this payment method everywhere. As you may have noticed, all of the stores and establishments mentioned above are reputable chains that can be found virtually everywhere. You’ll want to stick to using this form of payment at places like that — with a strong reputation — so that you can rely on their security to keep your information safe. Avoid using Android Pay at smaller and lesser known stores or establishments that may not have as great of a security system.

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Why We’re Looking Forward to the Release of Android O

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 13:00:38 +0000

There are many exciting features to look forward to with the release of Android O. The Android 8.0 update will help you to get things done faster than ever before with an improved boot speed.

The reason for improved speed is because it has double the boot speed when powering up your Android. This boot speed can vary, though, because the boot speed was measured on the Google Pixel, but it’s very likely that every Android will benefit from a faster boot speed.

Improved Battery Life
Another benefit of Android Oreo is that it can improve your battery life. It saves battery by minimizing the background activity in the apps that you rarely use. A major battery drainer is when apps run in the background of your phone because they use up your battery even when you’re not actually using the app. The new Android update will go through your app activity to see which ones you use the least, and prevent them from running too much background activity that would waste your battery life.

Picture-in-Picture Capability
With this new picture-in-picture function, you can have two apps open at once, allowing you to better multitask. Have you ever been video chatting with a friend but wanted to google something? Now you don’t have to choose between the two apps. You can have your video chat window open while you google and be able to see both apps at once on your Android. This new feature will make you much more productive because you can do two things at once.

Makes App Use Easier
One new feature of Android Oreo is notification dots. These dots make it much easier to see what your notifications are because they pop up on screen instead of on the top toolbar. Another great part of these notification dots is that once you’ve read what they have to say, you can easily clear them by swiping away. In addition to the notification dots, Android 8.0 will also include Android Instant Apps. These apps let you to run your apps instantly, without having to wait for installation. These instant apps are fast with beautiful user interfaces, high performance, and great capabilities; you can open them just by tapping. No more waiting around for installation!

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Why You Should Care About Your Phone’s RAM

Tue, 07 Nov 2017 23:00:03 +0000

Computer terminology can be a little confusing to the average user. There’s a lot of acronyms and technical phrases, and while we know they all work in tandem to ensure our phones, it can be a little difficult to figure out what each of them is responsible for. RAM stands for random-access memory, and it is concerned mostly with what your phone is “currently thinking,” so to speak. To ensure that your RAM isn’t overworked, use the memory booster feature to close background apps and speed up your device:

Your phone has a bunch of apps saved on it, basic programs that are either running or not running. Your phone always knows how to open Instagram, for example, though it wouldn’t have anything new to display; the app could open without any connection to Wi-Fi or service. This is something your phone knows how to do on its own. But it’s not like the app is always running.

Occasionally it lays dormant, waiting to be activated. These are things your phone remembers how to do, but it’s not the sort of memory RAM is concerned with. That’s “hard drive” data — things like documents, apps, photos, etc. — that are stored there, and they’ll be there every time you turn your phone off and back on.

RAM is concerned with active memory. The second you open Instagram is the second RAM kicks it, and it’s the reason you don’t have to reopen Instagram if you close the window briefly to make a phone call. When you open Instagram again, it doesn’t have to reload the whole app because RAM remembered it was running Instagram and continued to run the program even while you made your call.

RAM is short-term memory, and it stops remembering the second you definitively close the app (instead of just minimizing the window) as well as every time you turn your phone off and back on. Your RAM dictates how fast your phone runs, and it’s the reason your phone slows down the more apps you have open: it’s got a lot on its mind, all of a sudden, and has to split its attention.

What does that mean for you? Essentially, if you’re the type of person who has a lot of apps open at once, you’re going to want to make sure your RAM is powerful enough to match. Apps such as games, which have a lot of things happening at once while they’re open, eat up a lot of RAM. So, be careful about eating it up.

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Performance - PSafe Blog

Does a Padlock in Your Browser Always Mean a Website Is Safe?

What Does the Padlock Symbol Mean?

Can a Fake Website Have a Padlock?

Why Did Google Chrome Replace the Padlock Icon?

How Can You Tell if a Website Is Trustworthy?

1. Check the Full Website Address

2. Be Careful With Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True

3. Pay Attention to Where the Link Came From

4. Question Unexpected Requests for Information

5. Use an Additional Layer of Protection

Warning Signs of a Fake Website

What Should You Do if You Entered Information on a Suspicious Website?

Why HTTPS Matters, Even Though It Doesn’t Guarantee Safety

Keep reading: Blog PSafe

Does Receiving a WhatsApp Code You Didn’t Request Mean Your Account Was Hacked?

Myth or fact: An unexpected WhatsApp code means my account was hacked

Why would someone want your WhatsApp verification code?

I received a WhatsApp code I didn’t request. What should I do?

When does an unexpected code become more concerning?

What if I already shared the verification code?

How to protect WhatsApp from future takeover attempts

Read more on the PSafe Blog

How to Create AI Study Flashcards Without Exposing Personal Data

Myth or truth: Do I need to upload all my notes for AI to create good flashcards?

How to create AI flashcards more privately

A simple prompt can generate better study flashcards

What should you never include in notes sent to AI?

What about using an app vault protected by a password?

FAQ: AI flashcards and privacy

Is it safe to use AI to create study flashcards?

Can I upload a photo of my notebook to AI?

Can I include my classmates’ names in AI flashcards?

Does AI need my name to personalize my flashcards?

Does deleting the AI conversation afterward solve the privacy problem?

Read more on the PSafe Blog

How to Free Up Phone Storage Without Deleting Important Photos

Check What Is Using Your Phone Storage First

Start With Downloads and Files You Forgot About

Unused Apps May Be Taking Up More Space Than You Think

Make Sure Photos Are Backed Up Before Removing Anything

Deleting From Your Phone and Deleting From the Cloud Are Not Always the Same Thing

What About iPhone Storage?

Review Duplicate and Low-Value Photos Last

A Safer Order for Freeing Up Phone Storage

Frequently Asked Questions

Does clearing cache delete my photos?

Can I delete photos from my phone after they are backed up?

What usually takes up the most phone storage?

Read More on the PSafe Blog

Google Pics: What It Does and Who Can Use It

What can Google Pics do?

Who can use Google Pics?

Why might it be missing from my work account?

Can I use it on my phone?

What is arriving in Docs, Slides, and Drive?

Make your first attempt easy to evaluate

What to check now

Continue reading

Sources

Phone overheating: 8 causes and how to cool it safely

Is it normal for a phone to get hot?

Phone overheating: 8 common causes

1. Gaming, camera use, video, and GPS

2. Apps working in the background

3. Fast or wireless charging and use while plugged in

4. Direct sunlight and a hot environment

5. A case that holds in heat

6. Setup, updates, restores, and data transfers

7. Weak reception, hotspot use, and heavy data activity

8. A software, battery, or hardware problem

How to cool down a phone safely

What not to do when cooling your phone

Can phone overheating be caused by malware?

When should you seek authorized service?

Sources

Does Leaving Wi-Fi On Drain Your Phone Battery?

Does Wi-Fi drain battery? The short answer

Enabled, scanning, connected, and transferring are different states

When Wi-Fi can use more battery