That does not mean Google Photos ended, existing cloud items were deleted, or regular Android phone backup stopped. The change affects one specific desktop path. Here is how to tell whether it applied to you and what to check before changing your setup.

What changed in Google Photos backup

Google’s help documentation says Drive for desktop no longer offers the option to back up photos and videos to Google Photos. Support for that workflow ended August 10, 2026.

The change matters if you used Drive for desktop on Windows or macOS and selected local folders to send media to Google Photos. If that describes your setup, do not assume new files are protected simply because the old configuration is still familiar.

The supported path now starts in Google Photos. Google’s official backup instructions direct users to open Google Photos on a computer and choose the folders they want backed up.

Four parts of this setup are often confused:

• Local folder: stored on the PC or Mac.
• Drive for desktop: connects local files with Google Drive.
• Google Photos: the cloud library for photos and videos.
• Google Photos on Android: can back up selected folders from the phone.

The change removes the second item as a bridge to the third. It does not automatically change the other backup paths.

What did not change for existing photos

Items already saved in Google Photos remain in the library, according to Google. Ending the Drive for desktop feature is not a deletion command for cloud items.

Backup from the Google Photos app on a phone is also a separate process. Someone who only uses Android to save photos from the device may not need to change anything because of the desktop cutoff.

At the same time, do not assume every file on a PC already reached the cloud. Seeing a folder in an old desktop configuration does not prove that every item completed its upload. The safer check is to open Google Photos and look for a recent, recognizable file.

This distinction can prevent two unnecessary reactions: deleting local originals because you assume a cloud copy exists, or uploading an entire library again before understanding what is already stored.

Read next: Does Uninstalling an App Delete Your Account and Data?

How to keep computer folders backed up

Set up the new path carefully and verify it with a test file. Button names may vary by operating system, language, account, or rollout, so the help content shown for your own account remains the final reference.

1. Open photos.google.com on the computer and sign in to the correct Google Account.
2. Find the option to add or back up folders from the computer.
3. Select only the folders you intend to save.
4. Review available Google Account storage, which is shared across Photos, Drive, and Gmail.
5. Add one test photo to the selected folder.
6. Confirm that the item appears in Google Photos and shows as backed up.

Keep the local file while you test. First confirm that the cloud copy is present and understand how the new workflow behaves for your account.

Google’s canonical pages do not describe every duplicate scenario or promise an identical interface for every user. If a folder was backed up before, start with a small set of files and observe the result before selecting a large archive.

How to verify that a photo was saved

A quick verification lowers the chance of discovering a gap months later. Choose a recent photo with a recognizable name or date, then search for it in Google Photos.

Check that:

• the open Google Account is the one intended for backup;
• the item appears in Google Photos, not only in the local folder;
• its date and file match the original you selected;
• its details show that backup completed;
• the account still has available storage.

Google’s advanced Drive for desktop guide can help distinguish features that remain connected to Drive from those controlled in Google Photos.

If the item does not appear, do not immediately conclude it was lost. Check the connection, selected folder, signed-in account, and available storage. Then repeat the test with a small file. Interface changes or a gradual rollout may also mean you need to follow the guidance displayed for your account.

Does this affect Android phone backup?

Not directly. The retired feature was the bridge from computer folders to Google Photos through Drive for desktop. The Google Photos Android app has its own backup settings.

Still, this is a useful time to review the phone. Open Google Photos, confirm the active account, and check which device folders are included. Screenshots, messaging images, and downloads may follow different rules from the camera folder.

Do not confuse access with backup. A photo visible in the app may exist only in the cloud, only on the device, or in both places, depending on its history and settings. Before freeing space or deleting files, open the item’s details and confirm the state reported by Google Photos.

Checks to make before reorganizing your library

The change does not call for panic, but it does call for confirmation. Preserve original files while testing the new workflow, and avoid changing many folders at once.

A careful sequence is:

1. identify folders that used the old workflow;
2. confirm what already exists in Google Photos;
3. configure one small folder through the new path;
4. test with a recent file;
5. expand backup only after confirmation.

If other family members use the account or you manage a shared archive, record which folder connects to which Google Account. That can prevent a fragmented library and make files easier to find later.

dfndr is not recommended for this task because this is a backup migration inside Google’s services. The appropriate action is to use Google’s official settings and documentation.

Frequently asked questions

Did Google delete my old photos?

Ending backup through Drive for desktop does not delete items already stored in Google Photos. For important files, verify them directly in the library and keep the local originals while you configure and test the new folder-backup workflow.

Do I need to change anything on my Android phone?

Not because of this specific change. Backup in the Google Photos Android app is separate. It is still sensible to check the active account and selected device folders, but the desktop feature ending does not mean phone backup was discontinued.

Could selecting the same folder create duplicates?

The canonical documentation reviewed does not explain every duplicate scenario. Reduce uncertainty by choosing a small folder, testing a few files, and observing how your account behaves before adding a full photo archive.

How can I tell whether the new backup works?

Add a recent photo to the selected folder, find it in Google Photos, and review its backup status. Also confirm that you are using the intended Google Account and that storage is still available.

Continue reading

• 3 ways to recover deleted photos on Android
• The Major Threats That Target Your Backed Up Data
• Ensure That Your Data is Being Securely Stored
• Google Account Hacked? 7 Signs Someone Is Using Your Profile Right Now
• The Best Photo Storage Apps for Your Device

Sources

• Sync with Google Drive and Google Photos — Google Drive Help
• Back up photos and videos — Google Photos Help
• Manage Google Drive for desktop: Advanced guide

O post Google Drive Stopped Photos Backup: What Changed apareceu primeiro em PSafe Blog.

On July 20, 2026, the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) issued a new warning about criminals impersonating FBI and IC3 employees. According to the alert, scammers may offer to recover stolen funds, send malicious links, create fake profiles, and, in some cases, use AI-generated videos to make the scheme look more convincing.

The most important detail is simple: the IC3 does not charge people to recover stolen money and does not offer fund-recovery services through Facebook, Telegram, or other social media platforms. If someone unexpectedly contacts you with that kind of offer, treat it as a major red flag.

What Is an IC3 Scam and Why Is the FBI Warning About It?

This scam takes advantage of an especially vulnerable moment: you have already lost money and are actively looking for a way to get it back.

That is when the scammer steps in, claiming to be an FBI agent, an IC3 employee, an investigator, or a recovery specialist who can help locate the criminals or recover the stolen funds.

This type of fraud is commonly known as a recovery scam or double-dip scam because the victim of one scam is targeted a second time by someone promising to recover what was lost.

The scale of cybercrime makes that promise especially tempting. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Report, the IC3 received 1,008,597 complaints in 2025, while reported cybercrime losses reached nearly $21 billion.

How the Fake FBI Recovery Scam Works

The first contact may come through a phone call, email, social media account, online forum, or messaging platform.

In one example described by the FBI, a person who had already been scammed said they planned to file a complaint with the IC3. Soon afterward, they received a message from someone pretending to be an FBI agent.

The conversation moved from Facebook Messenger to Telegram. The fake agent then sent the victim a link claiming that the person needed to “update” their IC3 complaint.

That kind of approach can feel legitimate because it appears to continue a process the victim has already started. The scammer may know details about the previous fraud, use government branding, mention the FBI or IC3 by name, or send the victim to a website designed to look official.

The goal is to make you believe you are dealing with a real government representative.

The Biggest Warning Signs of a Fake FBI or IC3 Recovery Offer

A legitimate-looking profile, badge, logo, or government-style website does not prove that the person contacting you actually works for the FBI.

The FBI warning highlights several tactics that can make these scams harder to spot, including fake social media profiles, spoofed websites, malicious links, and AI-generated content.

Watch for these red flags:

• Someone contacts you unexpectedly and claims to be an FBI or IC3 employee.
• They promise to recover money you lost in a previous scam.
• They ask you to continue the conversation through Telegram, Facebook, or another social platform.
• They send a link and tell you to update, verify, or continue an IC3 complaint.
• They request a payment or fee before your money can supposedly be recovered.
• The website looks official but uses a suspicious or unfamiliar domain.
• The person creates urgency and pressures you to act quickly.

A convincing logo or professional message is not enough. Always verify the organization and website independently before sharing personal or financial information.

Read more: How to Check If a Link Is Safe Before You Click

Why Recovery Scams Can Be So Convincing

A recovery scam works because the criminal already knows what you want: your money back.

After losing money, people may search online for government agencies, investigators, attorneys, cybersecurity companies, or services that claim they can help. Scammers can position themselves directly in that path.

The promise becomes even more convincing when the criminal presents information connected to the original fraud.

That creates a dangerous sense of legitimacy. Instead of looking like a random scam message, the contact can appear to be part of an investigation that is already underway.

AI-generated content can add another layer of credibility. The FBI alert says criminals may use artificial intelligence to create videos that appear to show government representatives or other trusted figures.

The technology may look convincing, but the verification process should remain the same: do not trust a person simply because their face, voice, profile, or video appears legitimate.

How to Verify Whether an FBI or IC3 Contact Is Real

If someone claims to represent the FBI or IC3, do not verify that person using the phone number, link, website, or account they sent you.

Instead, independently visit the official FBI website or the Internet Crime Complaint Center by typing the address directly into your browser.

That removes one of the scammer’s biggest advantages: controlling the path you use to “verify” their identity.

The same rule applies to links that appear in emails, messages, advertisements, or social media posts. A page can copy government colors, logos, layouts, and wording without actually belonging to a government agency.

Before trusting a website, look carefully at the domain name.

The FBI also makes one point especially clear: the IC3 does not charge a fee to recover money and does not offer recovery services through social media.

If someone says otherwise, the claim conflicts with the agency’s own guidance.

What to Do If You Receive a Fake FBI Recovery Offer

Do not continue the conversation simply to find out what the scammer wants.

Avoid clicking links, downloading files, sending identification documents, or sharing banking information.

If you already clicked a suspicious link but did not enter information, close the page and avoid returning through the same address.

If you provided passwords or other account credentials, change them using the legitimate website or app associated with the account.

You should also report suspicious activity through the official IC3 complaint portal.

When reporting the incident, keep relevant details such as email addresses, phone numbers, usernames, website addresses, messages, and payment information. Those details may help investigators understand how the scam was carried out.

How to Protect Yourself From Government Impersonation Scams

The safest habit is to treat unexpected recovery offers with skepticism, especially when someone claims to represent law enforcement.

Do not assume that a message is legitimate because it contains your name, information about a previous scam, or details about money you lost.

Criminals may already have access to information from earlier interactions, leaked data, public posts, or the original fraud.

Avoid using links provided by the person contacting you. Open official government websites separately and confirm the information yourself.

You can also use Google Safe Browsing as an additional way to check whether a website has been identified as dangerous.

Most importantly, remember the core warning from the FBI: IC3 does not charge victims to recover funds and does not conduct recovery services through social media.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the IC3 recovery scam real?

Yes. The FBI issued an official warning about criminals impersonating FBI and IC3 personnel and offering fraudulent fund-recovery services to people who have already been victims of scams.

Does the FBI contact scam victims through Telegram or Facebook?

The IC3 says it does not offer fund-recovery services through social media platforms. An unexpected message on Telegram, Facebook, or another platform claiming to recover money on behalf of the IC3 should be treated as suspicious.

Does the IC3 charge a fee to recover stolen money?

No. According to the FBI, the IC3 does not charge victims a fee to recover funds.

How can I tell if an FBI website is fake?

Check the domain carefully and avoid relying on links sent by the person contacting you. Visit the FBI or IC3 website independently by typing the official address into your browser.

What should I do if a fake FBI agent contacts me?

Do not send money or personal information, avoid clicking links, save evidence of the interaction, and report the incident through the official IC3 website.

Conclusion

A fake FBI recovery offer can be especially effective because it targets people who are already dealing with the financial and emotional consequences of another scam.

The message may look professional. The profile may appear legitimate. The person may know details about what happened to you. They may even use an AI-generated video or a website that closely copies a government page.

None of those details prove the contact is real.

If someone claims to represent the FBI or IC3 and promises to recover your money, verify the claim independently. Do not use the links, phone numbers, or accounts the person provides.

And keep the FBI’s warning in mind: the IC3 does not charge fees to recover stolen funds and does not offer recovery services through social media.

Read More

• How to Check If a Link Is Safe Before You Click
• Latest Cybersecurity and Online Safety Articles from PSafe

O post IC3 Scam: How to Spot Fake FBI Recovery Offers apareceu primeiro em PSafe Blog.

Also known as quishing, short for QR code phishing, this type of scam can send you to a fake website, redirect a payment through Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App, or lead to a page designed to steal passwords and personal information. Researchers at Unit 42 report an average of more than 11,000 malicious QR code detections per day in their telemetry.

The good news is that there are warning signs that can help you spot a fake QR code before you open the site or send money.

How Do QR Code Scams and QR Code Phishing Work?

A fake QR code can arrive by email, SMS, or iMessage, appear on a payment request, or even be physically placed over a legitimate code on a restaurant table, poster, parking meter, or payment station.

The problem is that you can’t tell where a QR code leads just by looking at the pattern. Once scanned, it may take you to a page that impersonates a bank, retailer, delivery service, or login screen.

This is a form of QR code phishing, or quishing: the scammer tries to convince you to take an action or hand over information while the QR code hides the destination until you scan it.

The Federal Trade Commission warns about QR code phishing scams, including fake codes placed over legitimate ones at parking meters and QR codes sent by text or email with urgent requests. The FTC recommends checking the URL before opening it.

How to Spot a Fake QR Code Before You Scan It

There isn’t one visual detail that proves a QR code is malicious. Context matters.

Watch for:

• stickers placed over another QR code;
• codes that look crooked, damaged, or different from others nearby;
• QR codes attached to unexpected payment requests;
• promises of prizes, discounts, or immediate rewards;
• pressure to pay or update an account right away;
• a strange URL displayed after scanning;
• domains with swapped letters or extra words.

The FTC specifically warns that scammers can cover legitimate QR codes with their own. Before sending money, make sure you know exactly who will receive the payment.

Read more: Could You Spot a Fake Login Page in 5 Seconds? Take the Phishing Test. This PSafe guide focuses on fake login pages, look-alike domains, phishing, and the same URL checks that matter after scanning a QR code.

QR Code Payment Scams: How to Avoid Fake Zelle, Venmo, and Cash App Payments

If a QR code opens a payment screen, don’t approve the transaction just because your payment app recognized the code.

Check the recipient’s name, payment service or bank, account or contact details when shown, and transaction amount. If anything looks different from what you expected, stop the payment.

The FTC’s guidance for mobile payment apps recommends checking recipient information carefully before sending money through payment apps.

Google’s online security guidance also recommends checking unfamiliar URLs and watching for look-alike domains used in phishing attacks.

How to Tell If a QR Code Link Is Safe Before You Open It

After pointing your camera at the code, don’t immediately tap the URL that appears. Read the domain first.

Scammers can swap letters, add extra words, or use shortened URLs to hide the real destination. Even a page using “https” can still be fraudulent: encryption protects the connection, but it doesn’t prove that the company behind the website is legitimate.

At this point, a second check can help. The Dangerous Link Detector in dfndr security can analyze the address revealed by the QR code for signs associated with dangerous websites before you decide to visit it. It works as an extra layer alongside checking the domain and verifying where the code came from.

Similar phishing links can arrive through SMS, iMessage, and email. Learning to recognize suspicious URLs and fake login pages helps you spot the same patterns after scanning a QR code.

How QR Code Phishing Scams Can Impersonate Government Agencies

An official-looking logo does not make a QR code legitimate.

The IRS has warned about phishing and impersonation scams that direct people to fake websites and pressure them into providing personal information.

Received a payment request claiming to come from a company, bank, or government agency? Instead of using the QR code in the message, open the official app or type the official website directly into your browser.

What to Do If You Scanned a Suspicious or Malicious QR Code

If you only previewed the address but didn’t open the page, stop there.

If you opened the site, avoid filling out forms, downloading files, or installing apps. If you entered a password, change it through the official service and turn on two-factor authentication.

If you sent money through Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App or shared banking information, contact your financial institution or payment provider immediately through its official channels and save any messages, receipts, or other evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About QR Code Scams and Quishing

How Can You Tell If a QR Code Is Fake?

Look for signs that the physical code has been tampered with, confirm where it came from, and review the URL displayed by your phone before opening it. For payments, verify the recipient details before sending money.

Can Scanning a Fake QR Code Install Malware?

Simply scanning the code usually reveals a link or action. The risk increases when you open a malicious page, download a file, install an app, or enter personal information.

What Is Quishing or QR Code Phishing?

Quishing is phishing carried out through a QR code. The scammer uses the code to hide a malicious address or action and trick you into visiting a fake website, entering login credentials, or making a payment.

Conclusion

A fake QR code scam works because scanning a code has become almost automatic: you point your camera, tap, and keep going without checking the destination.

Before opening any address, inspect the code, check the URL, and verify the recipient before sending a payment. A few seconds of verification can make the difference between opening a legitimate service and landing on a phishing page.

Read More on the PSafe Blog

• Could You Spot a Fake Login Page in 5 Seconds? Take the Phishing Test
• Fake CAPTCHA Is Installing Malware on Your Phone — How to Spot It Before You Tap
• Google Account Hacked? 7 Signs Someone Is Using Your Profile Right Now
• 24 Billion Passwords Exposed? How to Check If You’re Affected

O post QR Code Scam: How to Spot a Fake QR Code Before You Scan It apareceu primeiro em PSafe Blog.

You can also use a dedicated app-lock tool when your phone does not include the type of protection you need. Here are the three main approaches.

How to lock apps on Android with built-in App Lock

Some Android manufacturers include a dedicated App Lock feature that protects individual apps without locking the entire phone again.

On compatible Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO devices, for example, you can usually open Settings > Apps > App Lock, choose the apps you want to protect, and configure an authentication method. Xiaomi says its Application Lock supports passwords and can also use fingerprint or face unlock on compatible devices. See Xiaomi’s official Application Lock instructions

This is useful for banking apps, messaging services, email, photo galleries, or social networks. Someone may know your phone’s screen PIN or temporarily have your unlocked device, but the protected app still requires another authentication step.

Menu names vary by manufacturer and software version, so search your Settings app for terms such as App Lock, Privacy, or Security if the option is not immediately visible.

Lock apps with Samsung Secure Folder

Samsung Galaxy phones take a slightly different approach. Instead of putting a lock directly over an existing app, Secure Folder creates a separate protected environment where you can keep apps, photos, files, and other private information.

Samsung says Secure Folder can be protected with a PIN, pattern, password, or fingerprint. Apps placed inside remain separated from the phone’s regular storage and require authentication before the protected environment can be accessed. Learn how Samsung Secure Folder protects apps

On supported Galaxy devices, look under Settings > Security and privacy > More security settings > Secure Folder. Availability and menu paths can vary by model and software version.

If you only want to hand someone your phone temporarily, Samsung and Android also support screen pinning. This keeps one app on screen until the device is unpinned with your PIN, pattern, or password. It is useful when lending your phone, but it is not the same as permanently password-protecting individual apps. See Google’s guide to app pinning

Read more: What Happens When You Tap “Allow” on an Android App?

Use Android Private Space for sensitive apps

Starting with Android 15, Google added Private Space, which creates a separate area for apps you do not want accessible from your main profile.

Private Space can use a dedicated lock, and Google describes it as a locked area that requires a password or biometric authentication to open. When the space is locked, its apps can also be hidden from several parts of the operating system. Read Google’s Private Space guidance

This makes Private Space particularly useful for banking, healthcare, work, dating, or social apps containing personal information.

If your phone does not provide the app-lock setup you want, a dedicated security tool can add another barrier. dfndr security’s Applock lets you choose specific apps to protect with an additional password or pattern, with biometric authentication available where supported by the device and version. That means someone using your unlocked phone still encounters another verification step before opening protected apps. PSafe’s current support documentation explains how to select individual apps and activate Applock protection. See how dfndr security Applock worksCan you lock apps with a fingerprint on Android?

Yes, but fingerprint app lock depends on the device and the method you use.

Xiaomi supports fingerprint unlocking for its Application Lock on compatible devices, while Samsung Secure Folder can also use registered fingerprints. Private Space can use biometric authentication on supported Android devices.

Some individual apps, especially banking and payment apps, also include their own biometric login. Motorola notes that third-party apps must specifically support fingerprint recognition before the phone’s fingerprint sensor can be used to sign in to them. Read Motorola’s fingerprint security guidance

Which Android apps should you lock?

Prioritize apps that contain information you would not want another person to access if your unlocked phone were briefly out of your hands.

That may include messaging and social media apps, banking and payment apps, email, cloud storage, password managers, photo galleries, healthcare apps, or work accounts.

An app lock should complement—not replace—a strong screen lock. Keep your Android device protected with a good PIN or password, register only trusted fingerprints, keep the system updated, and review app permissions periodically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I lock individual apps on Android?

Yes. Depending on your device, you can use a manufacturer’s App Lock, Samsung Secure Folder, Android Private Space, an app’s own biometric security, or a trusted app-lock tool.

Does Android have a built-in App Lock?

Not every Android phone has the same built-in App Lock feature. Some manufacturers provide one directly, while Android 15 and later offer Private Space as a broader privacy option.

How do I lock apps with a fingerprint?

First register your fingerprint under your phone’s security settings. Then enable fingerprint authentication inside a supported App Lock feature, Secure Folder, Private Space, or individual app.

Is Private Space the same as App Lock?

No. App Lock generally places authentication directly in front of selected apps. Private Space creates a separate protected environment where sensitive apps can be installed and hidden.

Conclusion

The best way to lock apps on Android depends on your phone. Built-in App Lock is usually the simplest option when available, Samsung users can rely on Secure Folder, and Android 15 or later offers Private Space for a separate protected environment.

Whichever method you choose, combine app locking with a strong device PIN or password, fingerprint security, software updates, and regular privacy checks.

Read Also

• 5-Minute Monthly Phone Check: What to Review on Android
• What Happens to Your Data After You Close an App?
• Does Changing Your Password Every Week Make Your Account Safer?

O post How to Lock Apps on Android With a PIN, Password, or Fingerprint apareceu primeiro em PSafe Blog.

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.

Read more: How to Check If a Link Is Safe Before You Click.

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.

Read More on the PSafe Blog

Recent English-language articles published in June and July:

• Can Your Phone Be Tracked in Airplane Mode? Myth vs. Fact
• Why Updating Android Helps Protect Your Phone, Even When Nothing Looks Different
• Your Phone Knows Where You’ve Been. Here’s Why That Matters More Than Ever
• How to Share Photos on Android Without Revealing Your Location

O post Does Incognito Mode Hide Everything You Do Online? Myth vs. Fact apareceu primeiro em PSafe Blog.

Google provides a device activity page that shows phones, computers, browsers, apps, and other sessions associated with your account. The list may include devices currently signed in and devices that accessed the account recently.

Why You Should Check Your Google Account Devices

Your Google Account may connect Gmail, Google Photos, Drive, YouTube, saved passwords, contacts, and other personal information. An unfamiliar session does not automatically mean someone hacked your account, but it should always be reviewed.

Google’s Your devices page can display devices active on your account within the past 28 days. Activity may appear more recent than expected because apps and Google services can sync in the background.

How to See Which Devices Are Signed In to Your Google Account

You can review your Google Account devices from a phone, tablet, or computer:

1. Open your Google Account.
2. Select Security & sign-in.
3. Scroll to Your devices.
4. Choose Manage all devices.
5. Select a device or session to view its details.

Google may show the device type, browser, approximate location, and the last time it communicated with the company’s systems. You may also see several sessions with the same device name. This can happen when you sign in through different browsers, apps, services, or private browsing windows.

Read more: Does Changing Your Password Every Week Make Your Account Safer? Myth or Fact

How to Sign Out of Your Google Account Remotely

Select the device you want to remove, then choose Sign out. When several sessions appear under the same device name, review each one. Google recommends signing out of every session with that name when you cannot confirm that they all belong to you.

Remote sign-out is especially useful after selling a phone, using a shared computer, losing a device, or forgetting to log out at a hotel, school, library, or workplace.

Before entering account credentials on an unfamiliar device, it also helps to keep a mobile security layer active. A tool such as dfndr security can support safer browsing and help identify digital risks, but it should be combined with careful account reviews and secure sign-in habits.

What to Do If You See an Unknown Device

First, check the details. An unfamiliar location can sometimes be a nearby city identified from an internet connection rather than your exact physical location. A recently reset phone or a session created through an app may also look unfamiliar.

When the device still does not make sense:

1. Sign out of every related session.
2. Change your Google Account password.
3. Run Google’s Security Checkup.
4. Review recent security events and recovery information.
5. Turn on two-step verification.

The Federal Trade Commission explains that two-factor authentication requires an additional credential beyond a password, making account access harder for someone who only has stolen login information.

Your new password should also be unique. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency recommends long passwords—at least 16 characters—and advises against reusing them across accounts.

Make Device Reviews Part of Your Security Routine

Check your Google Account device activity every few months and after travel, device upgrades, repairs, or account security alerts. Remove sessions you no longer need, update your recovery email and phone number, and never approve a sign-in prompt you did not initiate.

These small checks provide a clearer picture of where your account is active and help you respond before an unknown session becomes a larger security problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see every device that has used my Google Account?

Google shows devices and sessions that are currently signed in or were active recently. Older devices may disappear from the activity list after a period of inactivity.

Does signing out remove my Google Account from the device?

Remote sign-out ends the selected Google Account session. Some locally stored information may remain on the device, so a lost or stolen phone should also be locked or erased through Google’s device-finding tools.

Why does the same device appear more than once?

One device can create multiple sessions through different browsers, apps, services, or private windows. Review each session and sign out when you cannot confirm it is yours.

Conclusion

Reviewing which devices are signed in to your Google Account takes only a few minutes. Remove old or unfamiliar sessions, strengthen your password, enable two-step verification, and repeat the check regularly to maintain control of your account.

Read More on the PSafe Blog

• Does Changing Your Password Every Week Make Your Account Safer? Myth or Fact
• Your Phone Knows Where You’ve Been. Here’s Why That Matters More Than Ever
• Why Updating Android Helps Protect Your Phone, Even When Nothing Looks Different

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A suspicious link can send you to a fake website, trigger a malicious download, or open a form designed to steal passwords and financial information. That is why checking a URL before clicking is safer than opening the page just to see what is there.

Why a Malicious Link Can Look Legitimate

Scammers can copy logos, colors, wording, and even the layout of real login pages. They may also register lookalike domains by changing one letter, adding extra words, or using subdomains to hide the real website address.

The padlock icon in your browser does not prove that the company behind the page is legitimate. It only means the connection is encrypted. A fake website can still use a valid security certificate.

Google Chrome’s security guidance warns that dangerous websites may use addresses that look almost identical to familiar sites.

How dfndr Scans Suspicious Links

The Dangerous Link Detector lets you enter a URL and check for possible signs of a threat before visiting the page. The scan can help identify addresses connected to dangerous websites, fraud attempts, and other risks already recognized by security systems.

This type of technology looks for patterns that may suggest malicious behavior. A URL that closely imitates a well-known company’s domain, for example, deserves extra scrutiny, especially when it arrives in a message demanding immediate action.

Before opening a URL received through SMS, iMessage, or email, the Dangerous Link Detector in dfndr security can provide an extra layer of verification. If the system detects signs of a threat, it may warn you before you continue.

No tool can replace your judgment entirely. Always combine the scan result with a careful review of the domain, the sender, and the reason the link was sent.

Read more: Could You Spot a Fake Login Page in 5 Seconds? Take the Phishing Test

How to Check a Link Without Clicking

Start by reading the full URL. Focus on the actual registered domain before the first slash.

In chase.account-alert.com/login, for example, the domain belongs to account-alert.com, not Chase.

Before opening the link:

1. Compare the URL with the company’s official website.
2. Look for switched letters, numbers, or extra words.
3. Be cautious with shortened links that hide the destination.
4. Confirm the charge or offer through the official app.
5. Never enter passwords, verification codes, or banking details.
6. Run the address through a URL checker.

Google Safe Browsing also helps browsers and other services recognize dangerous pages and display security warnings.

Warning Signs of a Malicious Link

One warning sign alone does not always confirm a scam. The risk increases when several appear together:

• pressure to click, pay, or update information immediately;
• a domain that does not match the official website;
• misspellings in the company name;
• an offer that sounds too good to be true;
• a request for a password or verification code;
• an unexpected download;
• a message that arrives without context;
• a threat that your account will be locked right away.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency warns that phishing messages often rely on urgent language, unexpected requests, and suspicious links to push people into acting before they verify the message.

What to Do If You Clicked a Suspicious Link

If the page opened but you did not enter any information, close it and do not download anything. Check whether any unfamiliar app or file was installed without your permission.

If you entered a password, change it immediately through the official app or website. If you use the same password on other accounts, update those passwords too.

The Federal Trade Commission’s phishing guidance recommends taking immediate action if a scammer may have received your password, credit card number, or bank account information. You can also use IdentityTheft.gov for recovery steps based on the information that was exposed.

Save the message, sender information, timestamps, receipts, and screenshots. These records may help your bank, credit card company, or investigators review the incident.

How to Protect Yourself From Malicious Links

When you receive an unexpected charge or account notice, do not use the link in the message. Open the official app or type the website address directly into your browser.

Keep your phone and apps updated, turn on two-factor authentication, and avoid reusing the same password across multiple services. Links sent by people you know should still be verified because compromised accounts can be used to spread scams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Website With HTTPS Always Safe?

No. HTTPS protects information while it travels between your device and the website, but it does not confirm that the page belongs to the company it claims to represent.

Is a Shortened Link Dangerous?

Not necessarily. The problem is that shortened URLs hide the final destination. Check the full address before opening one.

How Can You Tell If a Website Is Legitimate?

Review the domain, find the company’s official contact channel, and be suspicious of urgent requests for payments, passwords, or verification codes.

Can dfndr Confirm That a Charge Is Legitimate?

No. The tool analyzes the URL for possible threats. You still need to confirm the charge directly with the company.

Conclusion

Knowing how to check if a link is safe means paying attention to the address, the context, and the message itself. Do not treat the padlock icon as proof that a website is legitimate, and never enter information when you cannot verify where the page came from.

Checking the URL before clicking, using official company channels, and scanning suspicious links can help prevent the theft of passwords, personal information, and financial data.

Read More on the PSafe Blog

• Why Updating Android Helps Protect Your Phone, Even When Nothing Looks Different
• Your Phone Knows Where You’ve Been. Here’s Why That Matters More Than Ever
• Does Your Phone Listen to You for Ads? Myth vs. Reality

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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.

Read more: Does Uninstalling an App Delete Your Account and Data?

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

• 9 Phone Settings to Check Before Traveling
• Does Your Phone Listen to You for Ads? Myth vs. Reality
• Can Your Phone Be Tracked in Airplane Mode? Myth vs. Fact
• 5-Minute Monthly Phone Check: What to Review on Android

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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The good news is that you do not need to understand advanced settings. In about 10 minutes, you can review location tracking, Android backup, and emergency contacts. Menu names may vary depending on your phone manufacturer and Android version.

Why prepare your phone before something goes wrong?

Once a phone is missing or no longer working, some security settings cannot be turned on remotely. That is why you need to set them up while the device is still in your hands.

These settings cannot prevent every problem, but they give you more options. You may be able to locate the device, lock access, recover your data on another phone, or let someone view an emergency contact without unlocking the rest of your information.

How to use Find My Phone tools on Android

Use the first three minutes to check your location settings. Open Android Settings, search for Location, and make sure it is turned on.

Next, open Google Find Hub from another phone or web browser. Find Hub is Google’s official service for anyone searching for a way to find my phone after an Android device goes missing.

Confirm that your phone appears under the correct Google Account. Find Hub can show an available location, play a sound, secure the device, mark it as lost, and erase its data remotely when recovery is unlikely.

Test the feature right now instead of waiting until your phone is gone. You should also protect the lock screen with a strong PIN or password.

Read more: Can Your Phone Be Tracked in Airplane Mode? Myth vs. Fact

How to turn on Android backup

Use the next four minutes to review your Android backup. Open Settings, tap Google or Google Services, and look for Backup.

Google’s Android backup guide explains that a backup may include apps, contacts, call history, device settings, and text messages, depending on the phone and services you use.

A standard Google Account includes up to 15 GB of storage shared across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos.

Check the date of the latest backup and tap Back up now when that option is available. Setting it up takes only a few minutes, although the initial upload may take longer on a slow connection.

Photos, conversations, and individual apps may use separate backup systems. Open the services that matter most and confirm that syncing is active inside each one.

Add emergency contacts to your Android

For the final three minutes, open Settings and search for Safety & emergency, Emergency information, or a similar option.

Add at least two people you trust. Choose contacts who will know what to do and can reach your family or emergency services. When available, include only medical information that would actually be useful during an emergency.

Android lets you configure emergency contacts, location sharing, and SOS features on compatible phones. This information may be available from the lock screen without exposing the rest of your device.

Google provides the setup instructions in its official Android emergency help guide.

Protect the account that controls location and backup

Your location and backup settings depend on your Google Account. If someone steals your password through a fake login page, they may try to access your files, change recovery settings, or interfere with your ability to control the phone remotely.

Do not sign in through links sent in unexpected emails or text messages. In this situation, dfndr security’s Anti-Hacking adds another layer of protection by warning you about phishing links and malicious pages designed to steal passwords and personal data.

Security software should still be combined with checking the website address and turning on two-factor authentication. The Federal Trade Commission’s phishing guidance also recommends avoiding links in unexpected messages and contacting a company through a website or phone number you already know is legitimate.

You should also review the FCC’s guidance for protecting a mobile device. If you have a stolen phone or cannot locate your device, contact your carrier, such as AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, to suspend service and ask about available device-blocking options.

10-minute phone safety checklist

• Turn on Location and test Google Find Hub.
• Confirm which Google Account is linked to the phone.
• Check when the last Android backup was completed.
• Turn on photo and contact syncing.
• Add two trusted emergency contacts.
• Use a PIN, password, or biometrics on the lock screen.
• Turn on two-factor authentication for important accounts.
• Save your carrier’s lost-or-stolen-device instructions.

Completing these settings now gives you a clearer answer when you need to know how to find a lost phone, recover your data, or protect your accounts.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find my phone if I lose it?

Open Google Find Hub from another phone or browser and sign in with the Google Account linked to your device. You may be able to view its location, play a sound, secure it, mark it as lost, or erase its data remotely.

Can I use Find My Phone when the device is turned off?

Real-time location may not be available while the phone is powered off. Depending on the model and settings, Google Find Hub may show its last recorded location or use supported offline-finding features.

Does Android backup save everything on your phone?

Not always. Some apps do not include all their data in the main Android backup. Photos, documents, and conversations may require separate syncing or in-app backup settings.

What should you do first if your phone is stolen?

Do not try to recover it yourself. Use Google Find Hub to secure the device, contact your carrier and banks, change important passwords, and file a police report when necessary.

Read More on the PSafe Blog

• 5-Minute Monthly Phone Check: What to Review on Android
• Why Updating Android Helps Protect Your Phone, Even When Nothing Looks Different
• Your Phone Knows Where You’ve Been. Here’s Why That Matters More Than Ever
• How to Remove Location Data From Photos on Android

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You’ll use your phone to show boarding passes, request rides, open maps, make payments, and take photos. Getting it travel-ready means more than clearing storage. You should also limit unnecessary access and make sure recovery tools are ready before you leave.

Why review your phone settings before traveling?

During a trip, your phone moves through airports, hotels, beaches, restaurants, and public transportation. It also connects to unfamiliar networks and may be more exposed to loss, theft, or people looking over your shoulder.

A preventive review can reduce the damage if something goes wrong. The goal isn’t to turn your vacation into a security operation. It’s to make sure a lost phone doesn’t immediately give someone access to your accounts, documents, and text conversations.

Phone settings 1 through 3: Protect access to your device

1. Update your operating system and apps

Before leaving, check for Android or iOS updates, along with updates for your most important apps. Security patches fix vulnerabilities that malicious apps or dangerous websites could exploit.

Do this at home while connected to a trusted network. You’ll avoid unexpected cellular data use and have time to restart your phone and confirm that everything still works.

2. Review your screen lock

Use a passcode, PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition. Avoid simple combinations such as birthdays, number sequences, or easy-to-guess patterns.

You should also shorten the automatic lock time. Leaving the screen unlocked for several minutes could make it easier for someone to get in if you forget your phone on a table, in a rental car, or at a counter.

3. Turn on location and remote locking

Android users should set up Google Find Hub. On an iPhone, the equivalent is Apple Find My. These tools can help you locate, lock, or remotely erase your phone.

The Federal Communications Commission also recommends knowing how to report a lost or stolen phone to your wireless carrier. Your carrier may be able to suspend service or block the device from its network.

Phone settings 4 through 6: Protect your data

4. Make sure your backup is current

Photos, contacts, documents, and important conversations shouldn’t exist only on your phone. Confirm that automatic backup is enabled, and make a manual backup before leaving.

Google notes that an Android backup may take up to 24 hours, so don’t wait until you’re already heading to the airport.

5. Review app permissions

Open your privacy dashboard and check which apps can access your location, camera, microphone, contacts, and files. A navigation app needs your location while giving directions. A game you installed months ago probably doesn’t.

Android lets you change permissions for individual apps. Use this review to remove old travel apps, unfamiliar tools, and services you no longer use.

At this point, keeping an additional layer of protection active can also help you identify risks and take better care of your device while traveling. dfndr security can be part of that routine when combined with updates, strong passwords, and careful phone use away from home.

6. Run a security review on your accounts

Check the devices connected to your email, social media accounts, and messaging apps. Sign out of sessions you don’t recognize, and confirm that your recovery phone number and email address are current.

Google Security Checkup provides recommendations for passwords, software updates, and apps connected to your account. Turn on two-factor authentication whenever a service offers it.

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

How to protect yourself while traveling: Settings 7 through 9

7. Turn off automatic Wi-Fi connections

Delete old networks and stop your phone from automatically joining open Wi-Fi hotspots. At hotels, airports, and coffee shops, confirm the network name with an employee before connecting.

CISA recommends extra care when using public Wi-Fi while traveling. When you need to access your bank or make a payment, use cellular data if you aren’t sure the network is legitimate.

8. Turn off Bluetooth and NFC when you aren’t using them

Bluetooth and NFC are useful for headphones, smartwatches, and contactless payments, but they don’t need to stay active all the time.

After using an accessory or completing a payment, turn the feature off. Besides reducing unnecessary connections, this may help stretch your battery during long days away from a charger.

9. Set up emergency contacts and battery-saving features

Add an emergency contact that can be viewed from your lock screen without exposing too much personal information. Choose someone who can help if your phone is found or you face an emergency.

Turn on battery saver mode and download maps, boarding passes, and reservations for offline use. That way, your phone remains useful even when you don’t have cellular service, Wi-Fi, or a nearby outlet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to update my phone before or during the trip?

Update it before you leave. You can use a trusted network, restart the device, and give yourself time to deal with any compatibility issues.

Should I leave location services on throughout the trip?

Location may be necessary for maps and for finding a lost phone. The safer approach is to control which apps have access and allow location only when it’s needed.

Is hotel Wi-Fi always safe?

No. Confirm the network name, avoid duplicate networks, and don’t ignore browser security warnings. For banking, Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, or sending documents, switch to cellular data whenever you have doubts.

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Explore more recent articles published in June and July:

• Can Your Phone Be Tracked in Airplane Mode? Myth vs. Fact
• Why Updating Android Helps Protect Your Phone, Even When Nothing Looks Different
• Your Phone Knows Where You’ve Been. Here’s Why That Matters More Than Ever
• 2026 World Cup Final on Your Phone: How to Save Battery and Mobile Data

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