5 tips for helping children learn good online etiquette

5 tips for helping children learn good online etiquette

Today, children are exposed to the Internet pretty early on, so it is important to help them embrace this technology with responsibility. There are pros and cons to introducing the Internet to young minds. However, teaching them how to navigate the online world and learn appropriate online etiquette can help keep them safe. They should also learn how to be responsible to make better decisions online and avoid misusing devices. Make online profiles private If a child is using a social media platform, it is important for caregivers to go through these sites to understand how they work. Part of this is learning about the privacy policy of the platform. Here, it is important to teach the child to keep their personal informal private and limit their online interaction to the people that they know. Strangers should not be allowed access to the child’s profile, and any friend or follow requests should simply be denied. Use strong passwords It is crucial for children to know how to set a strong password for their profile so that their account does not get hacked. They should also change the password regularly to keep the account safe from unauthorized access and keep personal information private. Be kind Children using online platforms for socialization should be taught the importance of being kind to other people. A question to ask before commenting or responding to someone should be, “Would I say this out loud to someone’s face?” This should help children make an appropriate decision and avoid being rude or mean to other users. Typing comments from behind a screen can be easy, but teaching kids to be sensitive about their words can go a long way in making them learn about appropriate public behavior along with good online etiquette and responsible internet use. Discuss digital footprint Once something has been posted online, it can stay there forever.
3 best no-contract cell phone plans

3 best no-contract cell phone plans

Several popular networks in the country offer 4G and 5G coverage to cell phone users of all ages. However, the myriad of options can make it challenging for you to choose the best plan. Factors like the number of minutes, texts, available data, connectivity, cost, and exclusive services are a few things you must consider. To help you get started, we have scoured the internet to find the three best no-contract mobile phone plans. Mint Mobile If you are looking for an unlimited data no-contract cell phone plan, Mint Mobile offers you one for $30/month. You can switch to their network and still keep your current number. The plan is also compatible with unlocked phones, so you can bring your own device to avail of the offer. But ensure to check out the official Mint Mobile website to understand network coverage and make sure your area code offers the best speeds for downloads. If you prefer limited data, worry not! Mint also features 4GB, 10GB, and 15GB plans starting at just $15/month. Boost Mobile If you are scouting for a network that supports your 5G device, this one is for you. Boost Mobile offers a sweet 5G-enabled no-contract cell phone plan. You can retain your existing number from any network and avail exclusive coverage across states and cities that support 5G calling and data. The brand offers unlimited texts, calls, and 1GB of internet for just $5/month. Alternate no-contract plans include 5GB of data for $20/month and unlimited 5G internet for $35/month. All three plans support unlimited minutes and texts, where you will be charged only for additional data usage over and above the fair policy. Twigby Mobile Seniors interested in availing of no-contract cell phone plans can benefit from Twigby Mobile deals. The service offers affordable pricing across a wide range of plans starting at just $6.50/month.
Top VPN services of 2021 offering maximum online privacy

Top VPN services of 2021 offering maximum online privacy

A virtual private network or VPN is one of the most useful tools for privacy that can be used at its best when using a public network, as it makes data tracking difficult due to encrypted connection. A VPN connection hides one’s IP address, which prevents companies from keeping tabs on your browsing history. So, if you are thinking of ramping up your privacy setting while using the internet, the following VPN services of 2021 can help you stay off the radar. NordVPN It is one of the best VPN services of 2021 that offers its services for both mobiles and desktops. The VPN service offers not only AES-256 standard encryption but also a double VPN system that encrypts the internet traffic twice. This ensures stronger network impermeability when using public networks. NordVPN is one of those VPN services with at least 5,000 servers in more than 60 countries, ensuring uninterrupted privacy. Moreover, it allows up to six simultaneous connections. Some of its other features include DNS leak protection, proxy extensions on Firefox and Chrome browsers, and kill switches. It is also one of the few VPN servers that accepts Bitcoin as payment. CyberGhost If you are looking for unblocked worldwide access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and iPlayer, CyberGhost is the VPN service for you. One of the best features of CyberGhost is it has at least 7,000 servers with more than 105 server locations in 91 countries, allowing maximum simultaneous connections of more than 7 devices. CyberGhost runs on almost all operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. The VPN service offers a trial period of 45 days with a money-back guarantee. Surfshark Like most VPN services, Surfshark offers its services on almost all OS platforms, making it compatible with mobile phones and desktops, thereby ensuring maximum privacy even on public networks.
7 Ways to Reduce Data Plan Usage and Avoid Overage Charges

7 Ways to Reduce Data Plan Usage and Avoid Overage Charges

At some point in their lives, everyone has turned off the Wi-Fi on their smartphones for several days and relied on phone plans to use the Internet. In such cases, it is easy for individuals to run out of data on their phones sooner rather than later. Doing so then leads to overage charges that progressively increase with time. Here are certain proven ways to use data more judiciously and, thereby, largely avoid overage charges: 1. Using Wi-Fi wherever possible A useful way to save data is to keep one’s phone’s Wi-Fi on at all times. In that case, the cell phone would automatically detect any open and usable Wi-Fi networks if they were available. If the network is safe to use and provided by an authorized provider, cell phone users can connect to it for browsing purposes and save large amounts of phone plan data. Even if the public Wi-Fi is slow, users can use it to avoid the prospect of overage charges and phone data exhaustion. An efficient way to ensure this is by setting a reminder to turn back on one’s Wi-Fi afterward in case they have to turn it off for a while. 2. Knowing one’s data plans and allowances Users can purchase lucrative and useful internet phone plans from service providers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, US Cellular, and Verizon. Once they buy the plans they want, they need to check the little details of the plans properly. For instance, they can check their plans to see how much data is included daily or monthly. Individuals who purchase a shared data plan can check with their service provider if they have added protection against overages. Additionally, one needs to be mindful while buying plans and only select the ones that come with the “carryover” feature. With this feature, users can carry forward the cumulative amount of unused data from the previous week or month for future usage.
3 mistakes to avoid when buying tickets for live concerts

3 mistakes to avoid when buying tickets for live concerts

The internet has made buying tickets for live concerts and shows convenient. However, people tend to make mistakes in this process, such as waiting until the last minute to book and using the wrong websites. These errors, coupled with ticketing scams littering the internet, can make ticket booking tricky. Keeping this in mind, we’ve listed a few blunders to avoid while purchasing live concert and show tickets for a wholesome experience. Not checking the fine print The fine print on a concert ticket can contain crucial details, such as the minimum age limit for attendees and the list of things not allowed inside the concert hall. Not meeting these requirements can deny you entry to the concert, leading to a waste of money. Besides checking the rules and regulations, spend a few minutes understanding the refund and return policies to prevent hassle in case of a cancellation. Falling for fake tickets Despite the enforcement of various regulative strategies, a few resellers resort to unfair practices when selling tickets. Sometimes, you may not receive a ticket despite completing the purchase process. It could be because the seller found a better deal and decided to drop you, or they hadn’t secured the promised passes in the first place. Numerous other scenarios could lead you to land up with a fake ticket. So, you must ensure the broker you’re purchasing from is a legitimate dealer, not someone who would run with your money. If you use third-party platforms for booking, visit trusted ones like Vivid Seats. This website offers multiple purchasing options with rewards and discount codes, making things easier for users. Last-minute bookings Concerts often sell out within a few days after bookings open, especially if the performer has a huge fan following. Booking your tickets only a week or two before the event would be a monumental mistake.
All things Christmas – Ideas for trees, gifts, and more

All things Christmas – Ideas for trees, gifts, and more

Already starting to plan out Christmas decorations and gift ideas this year? Well, they say it’s never too early to get in the Christmas spirit. If you’re looking for a few ideas to get started, you’re in the right place. Everything about Christmas, right from the cards you send your loved ones or the lights you select, can make or break the Christmas vibe. Let’s take a look at some ideas. Cards It’s a long-established tradition to send Christmas cards to your friends and family; it’s a way to show them that you care. Today, many websites help create holiday and Christmas cards with modern designs. For this, you typically need to select a template, upload your family photo, and get the card printed. You can even personalize it with your name and message. Alternatively, you can craft DIY Christmas cards if you want to put a personal touch on your holiday note. Tree When it comes to Christmas tree decor, ask yourself what you and your family members like. Do you want something a little less traditional, like a monochromatic pink tree, or would you rather stick to the classics with a simple red and gold palette? You can explore hundreds of decor ideas on the Internet. Also, if you haven’t bought a tree, you might want to check out artificial Christmas trees from Balsam Hills. The company makes a wide variety of realistic-looking trees in nearly all sizes. Lights Decorating your entire house with loads of lights is something we’re all guilty of. It adds to the festive vibe and can make your space more lively. For Christmas, you can choose from string lights, icicle lights, and solar-powered LEDs. Depending on the theme, you can select your lights as well. You can also decorate your whole front yard and each window in the house.
5 Mistakes to Avoid When Switching Phone Carriers

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Switching Phone Carriers

Switching phone carriers may be a daunting task, considering all the research and work needed to get through it. However, in some cases, it is inevitable, so it is always recommended to be well-informed and have all the details on hand before making the decision. There are many factors to consider when it comes to this, and there are some mistakes people make while switching phone carriers that customers can easily avoid. Take a look. 1. Choosing the wrong carrier This is one of the biggest mistakes people make and should definitely be avoided because of all the troubles that could limit a smooth phone experience. There are three wireless networks available: Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Some factors that can help decide which carrier works best for a customer include data speeds, any problems with dropped calls, text messaging plans, and if they are delivered timely. So check for these metrics when choosing the carrier. 2. Failing to compare phone plans So many phone plans are available, and while customers compare them, they often do not get into the specifics of the pricing to understand each service. This can be essential, especially when someone has already started a plan and, in the middle of the month, they realize they have been charged for some extra features they have been using. Some examples include Verizon phone plans and the Unlimited Ultimate plan for the iPhone, starting at $65 per line. The Unlimited Plus plan provides the fastest 5G and 30GB of premium mobile hotspot data. They also provide home internet for as little as $25 a month, but the service availability varies. AT&T also has good offers, but it is important to know that internet services and offers may vary from region to region. So always check for the offers available near your residence or business, depending on one’s needs.
4 online money-making scams to be aware of

4 online money-making scams to be aware of

While the Internet is great for completing translations in record time, watching entertaining content on the go, and doing work online, it is also an easy space for scammers to dupe innocent people. The Internet is fraught with scammers and fraudsters who manipulate individuals to steal their identities and money. The article talks about a few money-making scams that one should know about and how to identify them in case one receives messages from scammers. Here are four such scams to watch out for: 1. Pyramid schemes The idea of a pyramid scheme is for one to participate in a program where an individual is promised unrealistic returns on investments that don’t exist. The initial investors make quite a bit of money and end up recruiting new people and selling investment products to others. The plan primarily relies on money from recruitment fees and not the number of products or services sold. Most pyramid schemes present themselves as multi-level marketing operations; however, legitimate multi-level marketing operations gain profits from selling goods and services to customers, which is not the case with pyramid schemes. 2. Job opportunity scams This is a major scam where an unsuspecting individual receives an unverified email offering a job, which is usually not in their area of expertise. Those who accept are paid through a money order or check for an amount greater than the scammer first offered. The fraudulent employer then asks to send back the difference. When one does this, they realize later that the check or money order was fake, and the money sent from their account to the scammer is no longer retrievable. One should avoid opening emails where the job offer is too good to be true and verify it directly with the respective company or authorities before accepting an offer.
4 bad habits that may ruin a laptop

4 bad habits that may ruin a laptop

Laptops can run smoothly for years if they are handled and treated with care. If they are a part of someone’s daily routine, it is important that laptops are carefully used. A laptop’s lifespan may be affected depending on the way it is used. Even if a laptop is used for light internet browsing, there are some habits that may damage it. Take a look at four such bad habits below: Ignoring overheating problems Due to its portability, people tend to use a laptop wherever they feel comfortable. However, placing a laptop on a blanket or cushion may block its airflow, which can create overheating issues. Also, it is not advisable to leave laptops in a car on a sunny day or in any hot place. One of the best ways to make sure that the laptops remain cool is to use a lap desk. Moreover, if someone is overworking on a laptop, ensure the temperatures are in check. Not handling it with care When talking about laptops, the ease and the luxury of using them from anywhere makes them an ideal purchase as compared to desktops. But these advantages also turn into a curse when people handle their laptops carelessly and end up damaging them. Holding the laptop by its display, using a closed laptop as a coaster for a coffee mug, or throwing the laptop on the couch from a distance – habits like these can shorten the lifespan of the laptop drastically. Not paying attention to software updates Skipping software updates seems like a tempting idea, but it is not advisable. Letting software updates lapse can make the laptop user vulnerable to online threats. Updating the laptop with the latest software can protect the browser from cyber attacks. The ideal way to ensure that all the apps and software are updated is to install the updates as soon as they are available.
3 mistakes to avoid when buying sports tickets online

3 mistakes to avoid when buying sports tickets online

With the advancement of the internet and online ticketing, organizing events and setting up ticket purchase portals is easier than ever. Unfortunately, as with any major activity moving online, this one has become vulnerable to external malicious elements like hackers and other cybercriminals. It is worth noting that sometimes event-goers make certain mistakes while purchasing tickets, which can lead to the loss of money or failure to obtain the tickets altogether. Purchasing from unofficial sites or apps Musical concerts and sporting events have official ticketing partners. These partners have official websites or apps on which the main event tickets are available. Users can often choose which seat grade (normal, box, special) they need to watch the sporting event through the portal. One must verify that the website or app they use to buy tickets belongs to the official partner. Certain sites and apps may also advertise that they are selling tickets to the event at lowered prices. Such sites and apps are usually bogus. One risks losing data and money on such sites if one falls into this trap. So, such portals must be avoided at all costs. Failing to verify tickets sold on social media or free online listings Other places where tickets for sporting events may go up for purchase are social media pages and various free online listing sites. Again, suppose these pages or sites are affiliated with the event’s main organizer, or the tickets are being sold from a sportsperson/celebrity’s verified social media page. Using them to buy tickets is acceptable if that is the case. However, if individuals who are unfamiliar or anonymous put the tickets up for sale on their social media handles, there is a greater likelihood that it is a fraudulent scheme. Saving payment details on the portal Ticketing sites often ask buyers to save payment information, but it is wise not to do so.
Top 4 web design mistakes to avoid

Top 4 web design mistakes to avoid

A company or a brand requires its official website. If one wants their business to succeed, one needs a well-functioning website to help expand their business. Moreover, the website’s design also plays a major role in attracting the right customers. So, if one makes mistakes while designing their website, it can easily derail even the best of their efforts. Furthermore, these mistakes can make the company lose credibility and even its customer base. Top 4 website designing mistakes to avoid Skipping intuitive navigation and accessibility Brainstorming, sitemap, and wireframing are essential steps that should not be skipped. Furthermore, a poor navigation layout can also create problems. It can drive away visitors and create problems in the expansion of business. As a website needs multiple pages, arranging their categories appropriately is suggested, enabling the visitors to navigate the website easily. Not having a clear call to action Visitors need clear instructions to guide them through the website when they visit the website. A clear call to action keeps the visitors focused. Further, a good call to action uses compelling words or phrases to prompt the action. Also, one must ensure that the language is clear, succinct, and simple. Not having a design-thinking approach A common mistake designers make is not realizing the importance of design thinking and putting it down on paper. Some designers may assume certain aspects of the website and its users rather than researching. This may be problematic as the website does not empathize with the customer, detail their problems, or provide solutions. Furthermore, it affects technological capabilities and effectiveness. Compromising on user experience Prioritizing aesthetics over user experience is one of the biggest mistakes made by designers and brands. As the internet has exploded with different designs that elevate the users’ senses, many brands have begun focusing on making their websites more eye-pleasing.
8 jewelry trends to explore right now

8 jewelry trends to explore right now

Wearing jewelry is one of the easiest hacks to elevate one’s look. Earrings, necklaces, charms, bracelets, and other pieces can help people express themselves in more ways than they could imagine. However, the problem with jewelry is that there are endless styles, so individuals often get confused about where to start. In such a situation, one can take inspiration from the latest trends. Here are eight jewelry trends to check out today. Charms Charms are one of the most popular choices this season. One can consider different designs, from playful charms to whimsical charms and other minimal yet sophisticated options. Chain anklets Popular in the 90s, chain anklets have made a stylish and retro comeback, with many fashion enthusiasts wearing thick gold chains. One could layer them over socks, tights, or shoes to create the perfect style this season. Ear cuffs Ear cuffs have gained immense popularity in recent years, with plenty of styles to pick from. One could opt for small and simple designs or large and dramatic pieces. Drop earrings Many have started wearing drop earrings, including styles like dangle drop earrings and pearl drop earrings. One can pick from designs with crystals and gemstones suspended below the ear lobe or bolder options that skim the shoulders. Flower chokers These 90s-inspired accessories are more popular now than ever, with major celebrities sporting them. The trend is versatile and could elevate both casual and formal attire. Bracelets Many fashion enthusiasts are exploring bracelet trends to sport a bold look. Top choices include handmade and chain bracelets. Tennis bracelets have also gained popularity in recent years. Ear stacking Many people love wearing multiple earrings on the same ear. It is among the most popular styles on the internet. If someone does not have an ear full of piercings, they could consider clip-on earrings for a similar look.