Yet Another Android Scarevertising!

Androidsecurityfree.org

These are on the Rise!

I’ve seen more and more of this in the last few week.   One blogger, on barfooin.net talked about TunIn their advertising practices.  This one however came up with from Defrag+ and the advertising was simple yet to some very scary “Virust Detected! Remove Now!” and you saw a little animated bar like it was actually doing something.   This form of advertising should not be allowed and you should not install it!

The story behind installing this app, was a very simple one.   My Acer tablet was starting to get unresponsive and I wanted to see if the internal memory needed to be cleared and re-arranged.  I guess I could of bought the 10$ version but if they are going to allow this type of advertising on their app then I guess it doesn’t really do anything else. 

Third Party Advertising!

I should say this isn’t a big problem right now but I can see that if you got did your research to find me and you probably did.   You will see that there isn’t any real information out their about this and others like androidantivirusfree(dot)org which is one of the few that I’ve actually documented and talked about in the past! 

I don’t know which advertiser networks are allowing this sort of thing but I am sure sooner or later someone will start giving this people a mess of problems and they will see that they need to fix the problem.  

Push Notifications problems!

It definitely seems that this little app wants to advertise every chance it gets and it kind of seems the publisher is money hungry.   So I am unsure how trust worthy this app is and how much I want to keep it on my android device.   No wonder he is charging 10$ for the pro version of this app.   Oh well, I am going to delete this app and figure out how to fix the problem with out paying for apps like this one and others.   I am sure there is a simple solution to the problem but first I will go through and remove some of the apps that I don’t use anymore for starters and see where that leads me!

Some stories of the week!

News around the web!

Use Coupon Code “savenow15” and save 15% off the lifetime of your account!I really didn’t have a lot to say this week but I thought it would be nice to provide some useful links to my readers:

• Microsoft to Patch 23 Security Holes — Krebs on Security!
• Encryption is less secure than we thought — MIT
• The Risk of Running Windows XP After Support Ends April 2014 — Technet
• Google patches Android after Bitcoin wallet issue  — Infoworld
• The Myths of Security: What the Computer Security Industry Doesn’t Want You to Know
• Lavabit founder, under gag order, speaks out about shutdown decision — Arstechnica
• Snowden downloaded NSA secrets while working for Dell, sources says
• Hacked baby monitor? Welcome to the security implications of the internet of things  —Gigaom
• 12 Back-to-School Cyber-Security Tips — PcMag

As you can see there are these and more are out and about.   I have been reading all these blogs and thought these could be of value to my reader!

I’ve busy with looking for another laptop and I have yet to find one that I can afford or want but it does help that you have been using my VPN4ALL link — Surf Anonymously Super easy-to-use yet powerful VPN Client with many useful functions Instant VPN Download and Activation!  I’ve had so many start using it, I am really surprised.   Keep up sharing my link and my Coupon Code and you keep helping me with getting me a new laptop! 

The Untold Truth about VPN's and the NSA Prism Scandal!

Truths about Virtual Private Networks!

I’ve had a few people email me and ask the ultimate question.  “How does a VPN actually protect my privacy from the NSA?” and I thought this was a good time to answer the most important question.   Most people don’t really understand what a vpn actually does.  When I reviewed VPN4ALL, I didn’t expect so many people to sign up for the service.   Here though is the some things you need to remember.

VPN’s are like condoms!

If your not using it then you are prone to get your information sniffed.  Just using VPN4ALL and sponsors this blog, you can keep some of your information from being seen.   Here is a truth that you probably don’t know but just because you use a VPN doesn’t give your protection.   You must understand that when you use a VPN you are setting up a tunnel to another server some where.   This will stop the NSA and others from seeing your data from your local ISP and any other sniffer along the way to the exit server.   When you finally get out to the internet then you have to worry about where those servers are that the NSA is using to collect your data.   See top of the article for examples.

The problem with a VPN is that you still need an encrypted connection to the site in question because you never know if your will bounce from the exit server into a server that the NSA is tapping.  So again, you really should use something like SSL Everywhere plugin to try to protect your from the NSA and people from seeing who and what you do.

SSL Keys and the NSA!

We’ve heard about the NSA bullying and almost intimidating companies like Lavabit!  As of The last few days they have shut down their email servers and then after that Silent Circle email encryption decides to shut down in fear of what the NSA will ask of them.  So now all we have to consider is which companies in the US are being threatened or bullied for the so call encryption keys and why should we not be looking over seas for companies like VPN4ALL who an European company and is a yearly sponsor to this blog!

We basically need to be able to encrypt and  decrypt the information ourselves and implement an TNO model for all types of encryption from email to website browsing.   The problem with this is that we have yet to come up with an alternative to that.   We’ve got a few ideas like PGP but nothing where we can setup our Secret keys and use them.  

I believe in time we will see this happen but until then we will only have a to depend on programs and software that is out of reach of the NSA and other government institution which are also open source so everyone can see the program.   This is the only way we will ever have true privacy on the internet.   It will have to a concerted effort from every individual saying to the government that you don’t want to be tracked and documented.

Five Portable Apps for a website owner!

Kompozer for Portableapps.com

I’ve been using this because of my computer is dieing.   I have been using this with my club.  I have been using this for all sorts of wysiwyg editing.   It’s is a great app!

FileZila Portableapps.com

If your like me and you want to be able to to upload and download files from your host server.  This is a must have!

FocusWriter Portableapps.com

Great little application for those of you who must keep focus.   I’ve been using this for quite a long time for writing my book!  A Must have for those who use portable apps!

FireFox Portableapps.com

If you go to libraries then this must be an essential thing.   You can have it in conjuction with Lastpass portable and keep your passwords safe from key logging that someone might of put on the system.  You should also have 2 factor authencation to prevent you Lastpass account from being compromised!

Goldict Portableapps.com

If your like me you have to worry about spelling.   I don’t always spell the right word, but this little application can help keep you from making any major mistakes.   This is something I use all the time to help with writing the books.

What apps do you use?  leave a comment and tell people which ones work for you!

How to change your IP on your Android Device!

My Acer 200

Use Coupon Code “savenow15” and Save 15% off the lifetime of your account

I have been asked by one or two people how is the best way to change my IP.   The first questions that I always ask is:

“Do you mean your internal IP or external IP?”

I ask that question all the time because I know better than most that you have an internal ip that the world can’t see and is often called the Private Network IP. 

If you are just wanting to change your private IP to another IP, you can simply do that by going into your tablet.   You can see how by checking out my how to change the DNS on an Acer 200 / 500 tablet.  Instead of changing the DNS, you will want to change the IP.   Not much else you have to do to change your Private IP.

Public IP!

Now if we are talking about how other web sites see you or your geolocation data.   You will need to invest in something like VPN4ALL, which is a sponsor. You can see my review of VPN4ALL and decide for yourself..    Although, I have talked about some free alternatives.  They can do what you want but if your like me and you see the downfall of having something free.   I sometimes like to watch the show “Doctor Who”, having been a fan for many years and loving the science fiction series.  I sometimes want to watch it as it happens or as soon as I can.   So I use this little service to stream the show to my desktop or tablet and I don’t have to wait for the shows to show up on Google Play store.  Although, I will buy them from their anyways just to help pay for the show.   I sometimes just don’t have the time to wait for it to come to video on demand. 

They give you plenty of speed to stream your movies or shows from other parts of the world.  I can’t say much more than that.   It is entirely up to how you use it that will depend on how it works for you.

Introduction to PGP and Securing your emails!

Coupon Code “savenow15” and Save 15% on the lifetime of your account!Pretty Good Privacy!

I thought we should talk about PGP and how it can make your emails a little more secure.   I found the terrific podcast thanks to Iyaz Akhar and thought I could at least give you some great video to help you get ready for the next Security Now (Episode 416).  

What is PGP

According to Wikipedia it basically means “Pretty Good Privacy” and is a way to encrypt all your emails and in turn decrypt emails from people who you have public-keys with!

Encrypting your Emails can be a little hard for some and others it can be as easy as 1-2-3.  I already talked about a few but in the coming weeks I will talk about it even more.   Because i will have had time to read some of the books that I’ve borrowed from the library:

• Invitation to Cryptology — Not the best book to read kind of hard to understand because some of it is almost wrong and others parts didn’t explain very well.
• Cryptography Demystified — I started with Invitation to Cryptology and I must say this one is a whole lot easier.   I have only started the first few pages but it seems to be more understanding that the previous book.
• Understanding Cryptography: A Textbook for Students and Practitioners — This  is the next book I intend to read but I first have to complete the Cryptography Demystified.  It does look promising but I won’t know more until I delve into this book.
• Cryptography for Dummies — I must say I am going to read this one last because I believe I have more brain power than it gives me credit for.   I however am not leaving any stone unturned to understand PGP and understand encryption and how Public and private keys work.

I am confidient that after I get the books read and read again, I will understand PGP and encryption a little more better.   I just have to work through some of the books and you should have some Algebra and some math skills to understand some of these book.

Hopefully by the time Security Now talks about PGP I will have an even better understanding of encryption and how it applies to PGP.

Acer Laptops takes a licking, but slows ticking! (Survey please)

Nothing but problems!

 My Acer Aspire, is almost gone.   I hate to say it because my keyboard is falling apart and that means I can’t do any editing and writing my book!  Seems I need to figure out just how much money I will need to put into a new laptop.   I hate to have to buy a new one but it does look like it is much needed and to keep me on my toes with the latest technology.  The Good news is since I started talking about the Sponsor VPN4ALL, thanks guys, by the end of the year so far I will have made $248.89 but I am sure that isn’t going to be all. 

Survey Says:

Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey , the world’s leading questionnaire tool.

As you can see I am quite interested in seeing what people recommend and which ones they may want me to review can’t make no promises.   I do however am glad people are using my http://urlptt.com/vpn4all it has been helping.   If you know anyone who might like to try VPN4ALL, you can either send them to my review of the product or give them that and that will help me out tremendously.  

Webhost Deathmatch: Linux Vs. Windows

When you choose a desktop operating system, there is a pretty significant difference between Windows and Linux. The user interfaces are vastly disparate, many applications are designed for one OS or the other and the underlying kernels are worlds apart. The same concept applies for Linux VPS hosting and Windows hosting. While the differences in user experience tends to be lessened because you’re typically working through control panels, and not the operating system proper, you still have features, scripts and technology that one server OS supports that the other doesn’t. Here’s what you need to know.

Script Support

The script languages supported by Windows and Linux differ greatly. Perl and CGI are both difficult to support on Windows, while Windows technologies aren’t supported on Linux servers at all. While the latest Windows server operating system supports PHP, you aren’t guaranteed to have that version of Windows on specific hosts, so confirm the OS version if you want PHP scripts to work properly on a Windows server. Always keep essential script support in mind when you choose the server operating system. Scripting really is the primary decision maker for choosing Windows or Linux, as the two operating systems don’t share a lot of cross-platform scripting support.

Pricing

Linux distributions are generally free and are all open source operating systems. Some distros do require a paid commercial support package, but the pricing and overhead is less expensive than comparable Windows servers, due to Windows’ licensing costs. Windows also depends upon more hardware resources to run properly, requiring a more powerful server than you would otherwise use. Keep your price point in mind, and be aware of the capabilities you’ll get with Windows compared to Linux.

Microsoft Technologies

If you’re using FrontPage extensions, ASP, ASP.NET or .NET, you are essentially locked into a Windows server. Microsoft doesn’t make it easy to use this technology on Linux, BSD or OS X servers, although some emulation is possible. However, performance is not optimal, and it tends to take a lot more time and energy than just getting a Windows server on hand.

Database Technology

Database-driven scripts are common in web applications, and Linux database support covers MySQL technology. It does not, however, cover Access databases or Microsoft SQL. Enterprise-level applications use extensive database technology, and Access is great at handling high volumes of fields and information. If you need a specific type of database, confirm it is compatible with the server operating system you are choosing.

Security

Linux is widely considered a more secure operating system than Windows, mostly because the Linux architecture is not as easy for virus creators to program for. The lack of executable support in Linux prevents standard viruses from working, and security holes are plugged up by the many programmers looking at the open source code. Windows gets attacked by hackers on a consistent basis, and users have to wait for Microsoft to develop and deploy patches.

Which do you prefer for web hosting: Linux or Windows? Tell us in the comments.

Gregory Adams

Greg is a technology and mobile trend freelance writer with a penchant for rollerblading.

Reviewing VPN4ALL and why you should care!

They the people at VPN4ALL, gave me a trial service and I must say “I have been nothing but happy with the service for about the last few weeks”.  Some of the things I love about this is they actually have an app for your to use on your Android device.  So you don’t have to know any code, which goes back to to their slogan “VPN made easy”.  You know I’ve talked in the past about other VPNS, and securing your device.  It isn’t always that simple with free Wifi Hotspots.   I should know, I visit them almost constantly and that is because I am constantly on the move.  I have tried the free VPN’s and I must say this service is even better than you could get with any Free service.

Mobility!

This is the key reason I decided to use this service because I am constantly going place and using other free wifi hotspots and I know it is always going to be insecure because of connections.  I will say I always worry about who might see my password or see my personal information and try to take  my identity.  I will say with the ease of use with the VPN4ALL mobile app, I can connect to a VPN in minutes and not need to know any technical data.  You will need to buy an Mobile VPN4ALL Account to use this(minimum 5$ a month).  Great value for your buck and you don’t have to worry about all those people watching you.

Reliable Service

Speed and reliability are always going top of the security tree.  I will always need to have a service where there is no interruption and this seems to fit the bill quite nicely.  I can connect to any server I want and see if it is faster or slower.  I can also set it up to switch IP(internet Protocols) every Minute to hours, if I so desire.  Could give people headaches if they were trying to watch me!

Discounts:

If you are like me and looking to save money, use my coupon code “paulstechtalk15” at VPN4ALL to save 15% on either or both Mobile and regular VPN service.  See what else I have said about this service on my other post, If you want to keep your privacy, look no further!  Give this service a try and you won’t regret it!

How Much Tin Foil is too much? Why do we need to worry?

Tin Foil is all the rage!

I started this process, we we asked all sorts of questions about your Privacy and you.  One of the questions that was ask was about How much Tin Foil and how much do you need to wear on Security Now. I tried to listen to all of it and absorb as much as I could and I must say that we do not know how much data is actually being leaked to the NSA!  I don’t know how much you can prevent the NSA from getting your personal information and if you decide to do what this poor guy does, I have to wonder just how well this will work.   So I thought we should at least touch ground on this the episode and trying to figure just what you could do to get some peace of mind.

Opting Out!

I don’t think it is possible to opt completely out of the NSA wiretapping and have them over look you.  Likewise I don’t think they will ever leave you alone even if you did nothing wrong in the first place.  The question though that must be asked is how do I protect my civil liberties and make sure they follow the rules.  Again, I really don’t know the answer to this question but I believe VPN4ALL is one way to tell them that you don’t want to be tracked and spied upon.  Whether they listen and only do it to those they deem possible terrorist, I can not say.  I will say though, they are a sponsor on my blog because they have paid for one year of service for me and every time someone click on that link and orders their prouct, I get a little revenue.   

FAST & EASY VPN HIGH SPEED 1000+ IPs 50 Locations Worldwide Windows, MAC, Mobile 24 x 7 Support Buy Now Only 9.95

I really wish we could see the process and know just how much they collect on every US citizen and who over see’s this.  There is of course a process an I am unsure as to how well that is being used or if it is in the process.

GNU Privacy Guard!

I’ve started to use this GnuPG.org and It isn’t bad but I am sure it isn’t the only thing that we can do  to protect our privacy and try to keep out personal from getting to NSA.  We still need come have a way to get our emails to being sent even though your encrypting the message the meta data is being sent in the clear and thus the NSA still knows who you are and when you sent it.   We have to wonder who will force companies to allow sending email through SSL and not just in the clear.   This would greatly make it harder for anyone to get that sensitive data and your information would still be safe from prying eyes. 

I’m going to look for a service that does just that but I am not sure who I would trust with my personal information, hopefully a company out there will become available.  How Much Tin foil do you use to protect your privacy?  I’d love to hear your answer in the comments section!

If you want to keep your Privacy, look no further!

Privacy and the NSA!

When I first said something about NSA wiretaps the Internet, you probably thought I was joking.   Well, it looks to be a real issue now a days and that is a problem!  So we have heard about the NSA will consider any encryption being at risk, so they will be keeping those encrypted data for later inspections. Privacy is everything in my book and this is a continuing series for those who want to know how to protect their privacy from thief and criminals.   

Programs to protect your Privacy!

There are programs out there to help keep people from snooping on you.   Although it has gotten a lot easier because of Firesheep and most web sites now offer secure connections but not all.  This is where I suggest you use something like VPN4ALL and I’m not saying that because they paid me to say it.   I am saying this because they have become a sponsor for me for the whole year.  I get paid every time someone uses buys a subscription and they are affiliate links!   They’ve given me a free 1 year account and I really am impressed at how well they get around the library restrictions and that they are a OPENVPN provider.  There are others such as SecureVPN and CyberGhost VPN and even ProXPN VPN.  Each one has their merits and I have nothing against any of them.   I just have had a better experience with VPN4ALL and I think you will to.

Streaming Music and Videos

I’m no advocate for people getting around international borders to watch BBC and other such videos but you could if you wanted to and be able to watch Netflix and Hulu from outside the USA.  This is one of the many reasons I like this service because you don’t have to pay for watching a show that is being played over seas.   

Online Activity

Keep your online activity safe from prying eyes and people who are looking to cause trouble.  It isn’t going to be bulletproof but it will at least help with coffee shops and if you use it all the time at home also.   You don’t have to look over your shoulder as much, figuratively, and wonder who is see the insecure connection.

Mobile Devices!

Another reason, I love this service is that you can take your Tablet, like my Acer 200 to a free wifi hotspot and not worry because they even have a very good PPTP(Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol) that allows you to use your device anywhere you may go and keep people from spying on you while you on an un-encrypted free wifi hotspot.   So you can sit back and watch or do what you want and no one will know or see your actions.  You can use this for Mobile Phones also but that is totally your call.   I use it strictly for my Acer 200!

30-day money-back guarantee

Although this has some conditions, and I will be honest with you it is really always a full refund.  You have to have use under 100 megabytes of data or have some other issue that has been document with a support ticket and usually they will refund your money but it is still a better way to go then not to have any privacy or risk your identity from being taken.   You owe it to yourself and others to protect your privacy and identity and give yourself and others peace of mind.  Give VPN4ALL a try and Save 15% with Coupon Code “savenow15”, and I am sure you will be as happy as I am when I’m at a insecure location.  

Empowernetworks downfall and why I won't join!

@Laforge129 nothing works for the lazy person who wants something for nothing.

— Carnell (@BlogginRocStar) July 18, 2013

@Laforge129 U need to look up stats of the people who you’re getting your reviews from. They aren’t successful.

— Carnell (@BlogginRocStar) July 18, 2013

@Laforge129 I don’t have to prove to you anything. My merchant account is keeping me happy. Good day…..

— Carnell (@BlogginRocStar) July 18, 2013

High strung wasn’t he!

I won’t pay for a service that I don’t believe in and I am here to set the record for others who might want to join and want more information.  I had a little conversation with one of their members @BlogginRocStar.  Anyway he tried to get me to join Empowernetworks.com and I did my research and came up with some very interesting things about it.

Better Business Bureau!

The BBB gave this company a C- which doesn’t hold well for it’s advertising practices and I know I don’t want to be associated to a company who has low moral standings.  That isn’t all but it was one of the many reason why I won’t join.

You have to have a better reputation before I decide I will join your adventure.   I do a lot of research.

Scam or No Scam!

I have seen several sites that use the keyword scam with Empowernetwork and I am uncertain if some of the blogs aren’t getting paid by empowernetwork or not to post that type of content.  I for one will tell you straight up, I am not getting paid by them or anyone else to at least point out some of the obvious problems so far.

• Worksfromsomewhere — talks about the deceptions that people have went through and why it isn’t properly disclosed up front.   Something that makes me really cautious when it comes to an affiliate network.

I woul show you even more but then I we get to linking every person who might have a grudge against this website.   I will say with one of the owners living in Costa Rica it makes me wonder just how truthful this company is being.   

Research is everything?

I say that because since I didn’t join, I will not try to figure out which one this one is.  when I heard about the 100% commission you have to woner who is to gain from the 100% and who how all this is come around.  All I am saying is if people are trying to promote this and get you to click on their links then they have to have a better personality than this one guy.  If your going to have people who are going to be a PR nightmare than you obviously don’t care who you get in that door of yours.  I will not join and that is final.   I can make money the good old fashion way of blogging an using my time somewhere else.   Time is money and money is time if you know what I mean!

The Perfect Pin Password! How to not be predictable!

Predictability is the Key!

It isn’t like we have a lot of imagination, I was looking around and saw this blog post post about PIN number analysis.   Let’s just say after I read this, I got chills and it went down my back.   No one person can come up with a easy to remember PIN number and it be safe.   So the problem with this and other passwords are that people tend to make them easy.  This is where the problem lies, if it was easy to come up with a PIN number that is can be predictable then someone else can figure out the pin quite easily.

What throw out and what to keep!

Here are a few things that I saw on the analysis that you should be throw out for sure:

• Birth dates and years — This seems to be a very popular way to go to remember a pin number.   People are either using their year they are born or their month and date they are born to make a pin number for banks an other institutions.  Just throw those out the door.  If I could think of them so could a hacker who wants to get your money!
• Don’t just go down PIN #2580 — Here’s another that seems be a common ploy, looking at your phone and just going straight down.   Which seems to indicate no imagination on the part of  people making the pin.
• Don’t Use only one or two numbers like 1212, 6969, 2000, 1122 — It isn’t hard to figure out what numbers you use will make it easier to remember but it will always make it easier for the the hacker or the bank thief to get your money.
• Don’t try to be cleaver — Something like 42069 is one that is spoken really well on the analysis and thus it comes as a interesting pin.   He didn’t know why but I suspect I know why, and here it is.   420 is common for elight speak for smoking illegal sustances and we know what 69 is.  So you tried to be cleaver but I figure it out and I am sure someone else could easily.

Picking a Good Pin!

Now since we talk about the analysis of the pin numbers, a little and I do hope you checked out the Analysis.   I thought it would be a good idea to at try to guide you into coming up with a less predicable PIN and thus making it that much harder for a Hacker and would be bank thief to get access.   Here I will describe what you might want to do to make it almost unpredictable and still make it remember able. 

• Use the Random Number Generator — Come up with Four numbers you may want to use and use them as your PIN.   (Remember the rules, No repeating numbers, and nothing guessable.)
• After you find a PIN — try to come up with a four letter word that will allow you to remember the number.   You might also go backwards such as starting at the end and create a word for it using your phone.

Use your phone keypad to basically associate the pin with a letter so you can remember it or if you can come up with other ways that will help you in the long run.   You shouln’t write it down but if you do have to, I suggest using something like Lastpass password database and keeping it secure for your eyes only.

This is one way to do it but I am sure someone somewhere has a much better way but at least this way you have control of who or what will know your password.   You want to keep your money safe, and yes I am sure hackers are going to try to use this to figure out your new PIN but it is much harder for them to know which number you picked and when you did it.   So the ball is in your court and not theirs.  Hope this helps!

My Reasons Why I use Prepaid Cellular Service and avoid contracts!

Prepaid Service is Better!

My sister called me wanting to know about prepaid cellular services.   She is getting tired of paying for contracts and all those really high fees for unlimited everything.  She wanted me to research this and tell her which service is best for her whether it be Straight Talk, Virgin Mobile, T-mobile, and Cricket Wireless. I know I’ve talked about some of these services and ideas in the past and  they have been nothing but a way to keep my bills from to high and they actually help me save money in the long run.  I will talk about some of these and hopefully they will make it easier for you to decide.

Lower Payments!

I know this might sound like everyone else but I have found, that since I have yet to buy a contract.  I’ve have keep my fees really know.   Like this Virgin Mobile USA phone the Kyocera rise, I have yet to pay anymore than 36$ a month on services.  I’m paying for 200 minutes an unlimited text and Data. I have been using Google Voice, as my VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) provider and only had to pay $10 for the phone number.  So I am basically using the unlimited Data to do all I need and rarely use my minutes.

On a side note, you basically pay more for your contract services because you are paying for the Phone you buy and buying an Iphone can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,000.  So they add that on to your bill in small amounts but you they don’t pay for it but you do in one way or another.

Unlimited Data!

Something seems to be happening in the Phone industry where all contract providers are giving you limits.  So you can avoid those limits and tell them you don’t want to have limits.  I am seeing Virgin Mobile USA, Straight Talk, and T-mobile all have unlimited data even though they throttle your data you still can use it after you go beyond the limit.   AT&T and Verizon Wireless charges you for more data services.  So you have to be careful and not go over your limit.

Unlocked Cell Phones

Having seen this in the past with my HTC Inspire, I can take my phone with me when I want to and switch my service and possibly get even better signal strength but it isn’t always the case because some prepaid cell providers will not have SIM Cards to use with your unlocked cell phone.   So it will just depend be a smaller amount of places like Straight Talk and and T-Mobile who will carry sims that you can buy to use with their services.   Others are starting to sell sims but it will take time for other providers to have them and sell them.

Better Customer Service

With smaller companies you get to be a little more personal with customer service.   The Bigger the company the harder it is to get anything done.   It seems they like to build more red tape and keep you frustrated.  I have found the smaller companies want to keep you as a customer and will do almost anything to keep you with them.   If they have to give you a discount to keep you they will over look small stuff and not penalize you for it.  So you can save money from time to time by talking with them and you could even get a free month of service if you do it right.

I am sure these are just a few but these are why I will always go with No Contract Cellular services and not be bound down by a contract.   I can save so much money this way that I will not even consider using anything else but no contract providers.

Paul Sylvester

I started Writing my book and you're going to want to read it!

The Naked Truth about Blogging and Making Money Online! (Tentatively)

Since the last time you been here, I have told you about 4 of my personal secrets.   Well, I’ve pretty much decided to buckle down and start writing.  I must say I have the first chapter pretty much started and have so many ideas and thoughts of how I want to organize the book.  I have been writing in a notebook about the ideas and am certain it will develop in the coming months.  

In need of Proof Readers!

I know I’m not perfect and I even know in my posts, I make some silly mistakes.  I know my punctuation isn’t any good either.  I will be looking for a few good proof readers who will help me make this book Awesome.   You don’t need to be a teacher in English to help me, but you will need to be down right honest with me.   If you think you fit the bill, please feel free to contact me and we will talk!

The Book idea!

I will talk about my life experiences and what I’ve have learned in the 6 years of blogging!  I will show you what I’ve learned about making money online and what are some more common ways to making money.  You will learn what I’ve have learned.  I have yet to completely write down all that will be included but I am sure it will be “AWESOME”.   In the coming weeks, you will see a few excerpts from the book on upcoming posts.   To show you what I am writing about.   Until then, just think about all the possibilities.

The Marathon!

Writing this book is going to be a marathon in my mind, because I will have to put in 1,000 hours or so before this is finished and I am hoping this brings in some decent income into my pocket.   I am not planing on this being a one hit wonder but am hopeful that when this is all said and done the book will bring in some kind of income!  Here’s looking to the future.  

4 Secrets no one did not know about me!

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Secrets we all Keep!

You know it was high time I have one of those off the wall posts.   This seems to be one of thosetimes for me.   I thought about it all night long and I wanted to share with your some of my secrets that I’ve bottled up and need to share with the world.  Your the first readers to read this and I know my secrets will be kept secret!

Secret #1

I want to start writing a book!

I am sure I am not the only one who has the desire to do it but the problem with mine is that I can’t come up with what to write about.   It is sometimes called “Writers Block”, so I am in need of some ideas and suggestions and what to write about and what you may want to read!   Leave a comment with your suggestions!

Secret #2

I want to find that Special Some One!

Some of you would probably say that isn’t really secret, and others would argue it is.   I know my family has been supportative of this but it isn’t like I go to bars or have had any success with Dating Sites!  I want to be able to talk to someone and feel a connection in more ways than one!

Secret #3

I have been admiring someone from a far!

It probably isn’t normal but I have been watching someone and wondering if they even know I exist.  This personal who shall be nameless is one of those I watch on Facebook and other places and she is always a pleasure pleasure to read her posts.   I know we may never meet in real life but I’ve grown fond of reading anything from her because it makes me smile.

Secret #4

I want to create my own Business!

It isn’t like I haven’t thought this out.   I would love to someday pick up the phone and say “Quality Electronics, where QUALITY and ELECTRONICS meet.   How can I help you today!”.   As you can see I have thought hard and long about doing this but I have neither the space or money to fullfil my dreams.  I am hoping someday this will be a reality.

This is all for now!

As you can see this isn’t going to be a big list but this is something I wanted to share with people and hopefully get some good or negative feed back on some of this stuff.   I know I am not the only one to want some if not all of these desires and wants but it can be difficult for some and others.   

Reviewing Wilson cellular signal booster For Phone and Mifi!

Product Features

• Installs easily In any vehicle
• Significantly improves both transmitted and received signal levels
• Reduces dropped calls and extends range
• Universal cradle holds any cellular phone securely
• For antenna upgrade, use the Wilson Electronics 301125 Magnet Mount Antenna
• Built-in port for battery charging; adjustable arms to fit most any phone
• Extends the calling range and signal strength of any phone on any North American cell service provider (except Nextel/iDEN)
• External vehicular antenna increases any phone’s output power to cell towers
• Reduces dropped calls, extends signal range, and increases data rates
• What’s in the Box: amplifier/charger cradle, mini magnet-mount antenna for outside vehicle, in-car power adapter, dash mount, installation guide

Dimensions

• Size (LWH): 7.75 inches, 6.12 inches, 2.25 inches

As you can see this come with a lot of stuff, but what you might not realize is that it can increase signal strength for Verizon Mobile, Virgin Mobile, AT&T, Sprint, Straight Talk and Cricket Wireless Cell Phones and Modems.   I say that pretty much covers anyone who has a 3g Connection, you have the option of buying the 4G Signal Booster but most will only need the 3G booster.   I am sure I have left out a few mobile providers but in any case most, if not all, will work with this booster.

So I got mine for 89$ but Amazon seems to be running a special on them right  now.  I would recommend buying the bigger Antenna for it.  The  Antenna that comes with it is really a small antenna and thus you will not get as much service without the bigger version of Antenna.   I have ordered my bigger Antenna but it didn’t not make it to this review.   I must say that I am living in a area that doesn’t get much signals and this booster did help out with all my needs.

Pro’s

• Mobility — if you are looking for the car, then this is defiantly one of those that can be a great asset to traveling.  The antenna stays on the roof with no problem, the magnet is strong and sturdy. 
• More Coverage — After installing this booster in my home, I have found that I am getting at least 1 bar with my Virgin Mobile Mifi Modem.   Which in itself is very good thing.  I can’t get internet any other way.
• Home Kits — Wilson sells some great home kits to make it more home friendly, so at least if you need it for the home it can easily be used for the home.
• Money — You only have to buy this once and you are all set to use it for any phone you might buy!

Con’s

• Heat — If you the booster has to work a lot it will be producing more heat.   Although this isn’t the end of the world it can slow or prevent some cell phones from working properly.   So you must be mindful of that.
• Antenna — Like I said you can buy a bigger Antenna but that will up the cost of the booster by 20 to 30% but it is worth it.  It should be a kit already being sold with the bigger antenna, but I am sure someone has thought of that somewhere.
• Phones — This is one of those really obvious ones but not all phones will be able to use this booster because of the location of the battery and the internal antenna.   It sometimes is a hit or miss when it comes to cell phone boosters.

All in all I am really happy with this little Cellular Booster that actually does increase my data and phone speeds a lot and let’s me have more steady connections.   It is a must for anyone who lives in a rural area that needs to be connected to friends and family.   I am really happy with this little device and you should go check it out yourself!

The NSA and You, what they probably know about you!

NSA has Secrets!

In a recent report by USA Today, we see just how much the NSA is keeping behind closed doors! I have been seeing this come over the years and quite frankly have expected this to happen.   Nothing has changed in my mind, but I am sure everyone is either quite uncomfortable or in denial of the whole thing.  They have everything they need including your identity, although they already had that if your a US citizen.

Cell Phone Data!

With Prism program being exposed you can bet they are wire taping all the data from Cell Phones, your IMEI, GPS location, and even who you sent or received text messages from.  That is however where you should worry.   

Most phones are using data to place phone calls now a days.   We have went from analog to digital on over the air televisions and they did the same thing to digitial voice calls.   So when you dial your cell phone and talk to your friend or family member.   You can bet the NSA is listening in.   

Emails and You!

Just like Google will look for keywords in your emails to serve up relevant ads in your Gmail account. That was to unexpected they have to make money somewhere.   It can be very dangerous though to email someone with really bad words and I mean those words you don’t want to flag you as a potential terrorist.  Emails are being sent to other servers without encryption and this is a good example on how the NSA is also getting your private emails to friends and family.

All Data is be collected!

I am almost certain that all data you have is being collected at some form or another.   You can really expect it to change over night but you can at least keep what privacy you have safe and secure.   You need something like VPN4ALL Enhanced VPN Security Military Grade Encryption Hide your Identity from Hackers and Government ALIKE.   I won’t say this is the only thing you need but it will help you protect your privacy online.   I like them because they have mobile VPN that you can use with your mobile phones and tablets and keep your safe and secure.

If You Cherish Your Identity, Start Paying Attention...

Identity theft is a growing concern for many consumers, especially we increasingly conduct business online and share our personal information on social media. Pittsburgh’s WPXI reports that identity theft occurs at the whopping rate of once per every three seconds. Even for people who keep much of their personal information as private as possible, recent security breaches at several major organizations show that no individual is safe from a loss of personal data, regardless of their personal habits.

For example, a security breach at the national payroll company ADP recently exposed the names and social security numbers of nearly 5,000 Houston government employees, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recently settled a case in which the names, social security numbers and dates of birth of 26.5 million veterans and their families were stolen. Situations such as these are, unfortunately, out of consumers’ hands.

However, there are ways people can protect themselves and their family members from identity theft, even if their personal data is somehow compromised. Several companies are rolling out additional identity theft protection services every day.

Banking Trends

One industry implementing its own identity theft precautions is banking. Most banks offer customizable account alerts, but many consumers may never look into the advanced area of their control panels. Consumers who do want to take advantage of account alerts may be surprised to see what they can control. Account holders can get texts, emails or even calls in the event of suspicious activity or low account balances. Many banks can also alert clients if there are transactions larger than specific amounts on their accounts.

Credit Reports

The three major credit reporting bureaus all offer credit score and credit report monitoring services. These agencies can alert you to any inquiries to your credit reports or any adverse actions noted on their credit reports. Consumers can also freeze their reports in events they believe their personal information has already been compromised. Credit reports should be requested on an annual basis from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus, to make sure there is no suspicious activity.

Options for High-Risk Consumers

Certain consumers may be at higher risks of identity theft. These consumers include those who do a lot of transactions online or otherwise have high levels of exposure. If this is you, consider using an identity theft protection service such as LifeLock for added security. This protection service detects any threats on an individual’s identity and sends alerts if anything suspicious occurs. It also helps consumers track their credit scores and allows them to view their reports at any time.

Do you use any identity theft protection yourself? Tell us your preferred services in the comments.

Get a 30-day free trial of LifeLock Ultimate and save 10% off your final purchase!

Heidi Diamond

Heidi is a grad student working on a Ph.D in linguistics and communication. When she’s not studying and blogging, you can find her jogging on the beach with her beloved golden retrievers.

How to protect your privacy online and from the NSA!

Who watches the watcher?

That phrase has always made people think and I think it is high time we think really hard to ask those tough questions.   A few weeks ago we had Edward Snowden release statements on the NSA, and it got me asking questions that I am sure you are asking to.  Some of the questions I have are:

• What can I do to protect myself?
• What does the NSA actually know about me?
• What programs, and ways can I keep my privacy private?
• Why Do I need to keep my privacy private?

As you can see this is going to be a pretty big multiple posts.   To start it off with we need to lay a few building blocks and hopefully it will help you to understand the problem at hand.

The Internet and You!

When your on Facebook, or any other social network.   You have to understand that what you put out on the network.   More than you can see.  Although it shouldn’t be a surprise to my readers, you may want to at least consider that what you put out on the networks, might come back and bite you on the behind later.  

So obviously when you visit a site and maybe you are using an Android Device.   You probably don’t see the long outlandish URL and that can be problematic at best and at worst it can be used against you.  If you know anything about URL’s you know that nothing is sacred on the browsers and every link you click someone is tracking you.   Whether it be your ISP to an Affiliated Link, or it could be a bad guy just waiting for you to give out your personal information to him!

Privacy and you!

So now we come to the question of why protect it if we have no privacy?  Just because we have no privacy doesn’t mean we can’t keep what we have a secret.   I know all to well that people say or do stuff that they doesn’t want others to see.   It can be a make or break a person depending on who and what they see from a post on Facebook and other social media sites.  

If you were to walk into an interview unprepared then you will not get the job.   You can bet that most hiring managers will do a quick name search on your name on Google and other social media outlets.   Just to get ready for that interview.   Now we all know that if it is a really important position you can bet they may want to know all your profiles.   I don’t know if it is legal or not so that is up to you, it may help and it may harm.   You see the point in this, and why it should be kept private until you think it should be public.

In the coming weeks I will talk about rest of this but for right now.   You can sit back and reread this and absorb what you can from my post.   It might be a good idea to subscribe by email for the updates!  You never know when I will post more about my favorite topic…Security!!