Errors When Buying Smartphones and Habits to Avoid
Checking your phone right after waking up, before even brushing your teeth, is probably a normal part of your life. This habit is why smartphones are considered indispensable today, making it important to choose the right gadget and use it well. Doing some research can help you avoid making expensive mistakes and adopting harmful habits that increase your dependence on electronics. So, the next time you buy a smartphone, avoid the following errors:
Mistakes when buying a phone
Choosing form over function
Some smartphones are marketed as the best-looking phones you can find. Such claims can be deceiving, but they can entice you into buying a more expensive phone than you intended. Or you might settle for a smartphone that looks good but does not have the features you need. So, doing your research and checking the features and functionality of the smartphone model before purchasing it is ideal. You can always find a visually appealing phone that also has excellent features.
Choosing curved displays
Another captivating but often misleading feature is a curved display. While some find it attractive, brands can make it seem like smartphones with curved displays have better technology. This claim is only sometimes valid, and curved displays come with their pros and cons. Curved displays are more difficult to grip, and this, along with the flimsier panel, makes the phone likely to slip and get scratched. Accidentally touching the screen becomes more likely here due to the extended display, so if you enjoy gaming, avoid getting a smartphone with a curved display.
Consulting too many people
Family, friends, coworkers, and sales representatives, almost everyone has an opinion on which smartphone is the best and the plans you should buy. When you ask someone for advice, their opinions are likely clouded by their own experiences. You would be the person using your smartphone, so your preferences should guide your decision-making process. You are likely changing your smartphone for multiple reasons, so consider what you like and do not, what you use it for, and why you want a change. Answering all these questions could lead you to the most suitable smartphone for you and avoid letting too many people confuse you.
Falling for fancy vocabulary
No one understands absolutely everything about technology. Sometimes a technology we believe could be exciting might be ordinary and unnecessary. A phone with vapor cooling chambers is one such example; the feature is a good idea for only a few smartphones. Another misleading factor is the megapixel count. The quality of images captured by the phone camera depends on aspects like the size of the aperture and computational photography algorithms than just the number of megapixels. Similarly, you must have come across the term “peak brightness” of over 1500 nits. It refers to the ability of a small number of pixels that can shine for a short duration. But most modern smartphones, on average, max out at 800 nits.
Habits to avoid
Using your phone in bed
After the stimulation of the whole day, using the phone in bed can make it harder for your brain to produce melatonin—the sleep hormone that helps you relax. While it can be tempting to lay in bed and scroll through your social media feed, putting your smartphone away at least an hour before bed can help you wind down. This can also reduce eye strain, headaches, and blurred vision, which excessive screentime can trigger.
Relying on phones to remember key details
Your smartphone, by definition, is brilliant, but it is important not to make yourself completely dependent on the gadget. So, you should use the phone camera for pictures and note apps to remind you about work tasks. But using your phone to prompt family members’ phone numbers, birthdays of loved ones, and even names of coworkers can be a sign of digital amnesia—forgetting information that you expect a gadget to store. This can affect the normal functioning of memory and interfere with your productivity if you cannot access the phone for a while.
Constantly checking your phone
Texts, alerts, and social media updates constantly grab your attention. Thanks to unlimited phone plans, you are connected to the world throughout the day. However, frequent notifications chip away at your focus. Social media use is directly related to lowering the attention span and tends to erode your attentiveness. Social media can be an excellent outlet, but it can make you feel restless, left out, or envious in the long run. Instead of deleting your account or an app, set aside a few smartphone-free hours every day. Let your family and friends know when you might not be on your phone, and ensure you can still get notifications in emergencies.
Not cleaning the screen
You probably take a shower every day. If you wear glasses, you might wipe them often. Your home also gets cleaned often. But do you remember when you last cleaned your phone screen? You put it on your face, touch it with your hands, and stow it in a bag or pocket with all sorts of things. This makes your phone the ideal breeding ground for bacteria. The best way to fix this is to use a soft, lint-free fabric and a liquid solution to wipe your smartphone regularly.
Not choosing the right plans
A good phone can achieve excellence through a perfect phone plan. You can expect a fast connection and unlimited data with a good plan. US Cellular offers some of the best wireless unlimited phone plans with unlimited talk, call, and data, 50GB priority data, full HD streaming, unlimited LTE Data, and 30GB Hotspot access for just $44.99 per connection. US Cellular offers two other plans as part of the Promotional Unlimited—Basic and Everyday—at lower prices and with fewer features. You can also check out US Cellular’s three Unlimited Evolved plans, where the more lines you add, the more you save. So, consider opting for reliable wireless unlimited phone plans to get the most out of your smartphone.
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9 common habits that affect bone health
The bones are arguably the most critical element in the human body. Bones provide structure and facilitate any movement the body makes. However, many people worldwide do not think twice about their bone health. Certain foods and lifestyle habits are detrimental to one’s bone health. Every time an individual eats such foods or carries out those habits, they reduce the strength and longevity of their bones. Here are a few such habits:
Drinking too much coffee
Drinking coffee is a favorite activity for many people. Millions worldwide drink the beverage to keep themselves awake and going while they are working. Unfortunately, caffeine, the chief component of coffee, is not suitable for one’s bones.
Many studies have found that coffee drastically reduces bone density in postmenopausal women. About six milligrams of bone calcium are lost for every 100 milligrams of caffeine one consumes. Therefore, to avoid osteoporosis, a health condition in which the bones become incredibly weakened and porous with time, one must stop drinking caffeine-rich foods or consume them in moderation.
Failing to get enough sunlight
Vitamin D is a vital element when it comes to keeping the bones healthy. Sunlight is an abundant source of vitamin D. Therefore, people must go outdoors more often to expose themselves to early morning sunlight, arguably the richest source of vitamin D. This habit can keep their bones strong and healthy for many years.
Conversely, people who do not get sunlight or cannot step out of their house long enough to expose themselves to the sun are vulnerable to weakened bones and joints.
Sitting on the couch for too long
The body needs frequent movement to prevent stiffness and other flexibility-related issues. If an individual sits on a couch or a chair for too long, they are depriving their body of this all-important movement. Over time, their bones weaken and become less resilient to strain. Also, just as with bad posture, sitting or sleeping for too long can affect the shape of bones in the long run.
Many workplaces have employees sitting in one position for hours before a computer screen. In such workplaces, such individuals must be encouraged to take a quick walk or some rounds of exercise after every few productive hours. Doing so will keep their bones and the rest of their body healthy for a long time.
Consuming too many sugary snacks
Having a sweet tooth is not a problem; however, one needs to keep their sugar consumption in check to keep their blood and bones healthy. When people consume too many sugary snacks, such as donuts and pastries, they may skip other meals because sugary snacks are pretty heavy. This, in turn, means that such individuals are not eating as much nutrient-rich food as they should. Over time, this causes significant bone issues in individuals.
Not performing weight-bearing activities
A weight-bearing activity, as the name implies, is an exercise in which an individual uses their body weight to create the resistance that drives the workout. So, activities such as jogging, hiking, weight training, and walking are considered effective weight-bearing activities. These activities are crucial for boosting one’s bone intensity and mass. Missing out on these activities can come at a cost for individuals. After all, not doing these activities often keeps one’s bones from becoming sturdier and more resilient to knocks and blows.
Spending too much time indoors
Staying perpetually indoors, even if one moves around frequently, is not just detrimental to one’s bones because they are not getting sunlight exposure. Keeping oneself inside a house for long periods deprives them of pure, fresh oxygen and increases their chances of developing weaknesses and sicknesses. Not experiencing the sights and sounds of the external world can cause people to lose interest in any movement or exercise.
Eventually, this can result in poor health and immunity. Ultimately, not stepping out of one’s house is very likely to make one’s bones weaker and more susceptible to osteoporosis due to the sheer lack of sunlight and the other nutrients one can get by breathing fresh air outdoors.
Not working out regularly
Exercise is linked to increasing one’s strength in every way imaginable. Additionally, exercising regularly (if not daily, at least two to three times a week) builds a person’s stamina and strength. The exercise does not have to be overly complicated or taxing on the body. All one needs to do is walk a few rounds in a nearby park or do stretching exercises. Exercising speeds up the process of breathing in and out.
Additionally, workouts help increase the rate of blood circulation in the body. This causes oxygen and nutrients to travel to different vital organs and bones of the body on a much quicker basis. As a result, the bones get nourishment and proper testing regularly, maintaining strength.
Having a poor posture
Many people cannot sit with a straight back due to laziness or back pain. A person develops bad posture when sitting with a bent back in front of their TV or while playing video games for hours daily. This is arguably an even worse problem than insufficient movement throughout the day. While that problem makes the bones weaker, this one can cause bone deformation if kept up for a long time.
Eating food that has too much salt
Salt is a bad food when it comes to blood pressure or bone health. The more salt a person eats, the more calcium they lose. This element extracts calcium from one’s bones and teeth, leaving them brittle and porous. Therefore, while salt is unavoidable, consuming it in moderate proportions daily is still recommended.

Whitening toothpaste – tips, pros, and top picks
If one is looking for ways to get a confident, glowing white smile, then whitening toothpaste could be the answer. These products can help brighten the teeth by removing surface stains from teeth and using cleaning agents like hydrogen peroxide. However, with so many whitening options on the market, one may have to carefully choose the most suitable product. So here is everything one needs to know about choosing the right whitening toothpaste.
Tips for choosing the best toothpaste
Getting a bright, healthy smile starts with choosing the perfect toothpaste. Picking the right one requires careful consideration of factors such as toothpaste ingredients, flavors per one’s preferences, and the abrasiveness if one has sensitive teeth. One should also consider the price. So, here are a few tips for making the right choice:
Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance: The ADA Seal of Acceptance indicates that the toothpaste has been checked for safety and effectiveness in preventing, controlling, and maintaining healthy gums, teeth, and other parts of the mouth. So, with the ADA seal, one can be assured that the toothpaste meets the criteria and trust the safety standards of the product.
Compare prices : One should look up each option on the market and consider checking customer reviews for the brand and the toothpaste to make an informed decision. Comparing prices can help one save money and get the most affordable yet effective product.
Check the ingredients: For optimal cavity prevention, one should opt for fluoride-based toothpaste. When shopping for whitening products, check the labels and avoid anything with artificial flavors, colors, or other additives. One may also watch out for Cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) and propylene glycol, which can trigger allergic reactions in some people.
Benefits of whitening toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste is the quickest and most affordable method to address teeth discoloration brought on by coffee, tea, and food stains. Here are other benefits of whitening toothpaste:
Strengthens enamel: A good toothpaste helps brighten the teeth and improve overall oral health. Additionally, whitening toothpaste can strengthen the enamel (the outermost layer of the teeth), helping protect the tooth surface against discoloration. A good toothpaste can also remove plaque buildup without irritating gums or soft tissues in the mouth. Further, it may help reduce teeth sensitivity, making it a versatile solution for many dental concerns.
Tackles staining: While regular toothpaste helps keep the teeth clean and healthy, whitening toothpaste is designed to remove stubborn surface stains from beverages like coffee and tea or foods like berries or tomato sauce. Unlike harsh whitening products, the abrasives in whitening toothpaste (calcium carbonate and calcium pyrophosphate) gently lift teeth stains away. Additionally, such toothpaste can also freshen the breath by fighting bad breath germs.
Boosts confidence: Having a brighter, whiter smile can boost one’s confidence and sense of pride regarding appearance. After all, who wouldn’t want pearly white teeth?
Top picks
Finding the right toothpaste involves consideration of factors like key ingredients, price, and customer reviews. The best toothpaste is one that contains optimal levels of abrasives, as a high abrasive concentration can result in the enamel wearing off and weakened teeth. Here are some of the best options for teeth whitening:
Colgate Optic White: The American Dental Association (ADA) has awarded this toothpaste its seal of approval. Unlike many other whitening products, Colgate Optic White targets extrinsic and intrinsic stains. Extrinsic stains develop on the enamel due to staining foods. On the other hand, intrinsic stains form in the mouth over time when extrinsic stains move beyond the enamel to discolor the dentin (inner tooth layer).
Colgate Optic White Renewal: The toothpaste offers professional-level whitening power with its unique blend of hydrogen peroxide and natural enzymes. It works to remove surface stains and penetrates to help make teeth four shades whiter. With this toothpaste, users can notice results in just one week and professional-level whitening in 4 weeks. The toothpaste is also enamel-safe and helps protect against cavities.
Tom’s of Maine Simply White Natural Toothpaste: This is the perfect choice for ensuring one’s teeth remain healthy and white. One of its ingredients is aloe vera, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to scrub away teeth stains. Additionally, the toothpaste does not contain artificial colors and sweeteners, making it safe for sensitive teeth. Moreover, the natural ingredients in this toothpaste work together to provide a gentle yet effective cleanup.
Sensodyne ProNamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste: Maintaining a healthy, white smile is easy using this gentle whitening paste. It is safe for daily use and helps strengthen enamel while providing mild whitening, thanks to the silica particles that gently scrape away stains. Additionally, the toothpaste offers cavity protection and fights acid erosion caused by certain foods or drinks.
Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste: This toothpaste combines natural whitening ingredients and advanced strengthening elements to offer brightness while reducing teeth sensitivity. Its unique blend of baking soda, peroxide, peppermint extract, and lemon works to deeply penetrate the enamel to provide exceptional teeth-whitening effects that one can observe in a couple of weeks.
Crest Charcoal 3D White Whitening Therapy Toothpaste: Unlike traditional whitening toothpaste, the Crest paste uses charcoal to break up and remove tough stains on teeth brought on by coffee intake. The toothpaste also helps fight cavities and strengthen teeth with its fluoride formula. Further, it is formulated to help remove tartar buildup—a calcified deposit that decays teeth—that can cause gum disease.
Burt’s Bees Charcoal + Whitening Mountain Mint Toothpaste with Fluoride: Burt’s Bees is an excellent choice if one is looking for a toothpaste that packs a punch. Its unique formula consists of activated charcoal, known for its ability to absorb toxins from teeth and provide deep cleaning. It helps keep the teeth healthy and strong through its fluoride formula. Moreover, its minty taste will leave you feeling refreshed throughout the day.
So, finding a toothpaste that works for one’s oral needs is important. Looking up the toothpaste’s ingredients, price, and usage instructions is a crucial first step. Additionally, one must check the user reviews and speak to their dentist to pick the best teeth-whitening solution.

Dresses for all occasions – Tips and best deals
“Dressing to the occasion” is an essential part of getting in the groove of the celebration. Also, understanding the nature of outfits worn for different occasions helps one set the mood effectively. Moreover, researching current fashion trends and the outfits commonly worn at specific events can ensure the best of both worlds. So, here are some common occasions, fashion tips for each, and ways to avail of the best fashion deals:
Some common occasions and fashion tips
Weddings
The first aspect to consider while dressing for weddings is whether a dress theme has been set. For example, some weddings may have a formal dress theme, typically involving a formal dark blazer, white shirt, and a tie, if not a tuxedo. Elaborate cocktail or long-flowing dresses are perfect when attending a wedding. In contrast, tropical or destination weddings may have a casual wedding theme, wherein guests may select their outfits depending on the location. Outfits like sundresses and guayabera shirts may be perfect for such weddings. Pairing a sundress or polka-dot dress with a hat and sunglasses is a great idea for day destination weddings.
Cocktail parties
Since cocktail parties are typically semi-formal, classic ensembles like jumpsuits, knee-length cocktail dresses and skirts, and stylish trousers may be ideal. Bright-colored dresses are common at cocktail parties; these outfits may be paired with formal flat footwear or heels for an impressive look. Besides, kitten heels or pumps may be best suited to these occasions.
Proms
A prom is a formal event; therefore, proper outfits like a tuxedo or a suit, complete with a tie, are ideal for the occasion. Moreover, one’s dress should suit one’s body type and help one stand out amid the crowd. A long formal gown with a slit can also facilitate a quintessential prom night look. Today, Barbie-inspired outfits of different colors and dresses with corset designs are becoming popular prom night ensembles.
Formal events
Formal events such as conferences, launches, and sportspeople dinners require wearing prim-and-proper outfits, primarily suits, tuxedos, ties, long-flowing dresses, and pencil skirts paired with formal shirts. Dresses that overexpose the skin should be avoided, and appropriate formal shoes should be chosen for the occasion. Some semi-formal events may allow one to wear full shirts paired with jeans; however, the general dress code of the event should be considered before one makes a purchase decision.
Clubbing nights
The outfits worn to nightclubs should be casual, so one can easily blend in with the informal and fun vibes. Tank tops, crop tops, button-down shirts, and midriff tops paired with jeans or a skirt can also be worn to give a simple yet classy look. However, one should wear outfits that facilitate ease of movement, as clubbing typically involves dancing.
Tips and tricks to get the best out of promo codes and discounts
Carry out a quick search
A quick search on leading websites and eCommerce platforms offering promo sites and discount codes can reduce costs, especially when multiple products are purchased on such websites. One may also look for promo codes on specific retail websites, a common way to grab discounts on online purchases.
Bookmark coupon websites
One may also bookmark popular coupon websites and check out the available codes. However, the website should be well-equipped to delete expired coupon codes and display only the active ones. Hence, it helps to determine which coupon websites are the most reliable out of the several ones available.
Check out the store’s coupon page
Many websites may have personal coupon pages; however, these are often difficult to find and are typically ignored. It helps to thoroughly scan one’s preferred fashion website to check whether any such pages are available. A Google search on coupon pages of specific websites may also help find these web pages.
Sign up for newsletters
Many retail websites offer discounts and promo codes to incentivize signing up for their newsletters. Such promo codes can help one avail of significant discounts on their subsequent shopping spree.
Chat with the customer service agent
Chatting with a customer service agent using the live chat feature on websites can help one understand the different promo codes and discounts available on various products. This feature is now available on most leading fashion eCommerce websites.
Purchase in bulk
Often, many websites offer promo codes and discounts on the total purchase value, with higher discounts on bigger purchases. Thus, if one has a list of fashion items to purchase, it helps to buy all of these products in bulk instead of spacing out one’s purchase. This strategy can help one avail of promo codes and excellent discounts.
Check out different options
While one may have certain top preferred websites for their retail therapy, checking out different fashion websites and their products can help ensure variety and broaden one’s horizons for better discounts and fashion deals. It helps to Google one’s requirements once in a while and thoroughly research the different retail websites, their offerings, and price ranges. Most importantly, online safety is paramount; thus, checking out online reviews of different websites and brands and enquiring with friends and family before trying out new ones is essential.
Strategic online shopping is the key to availing of the best fashion deals on online fashion eCommerce platforms. It helps to understand one’s requirements vis-a-vis the occasion and look for discounts and offers on specific products, such as outfits, accessories, and footwear. If you are unsure of the dress code for any occasion, it is better to research than dress inappropriately.

9 popular teeth whitening products to check out
Beverages like coffee, tea, juice, and sugary foods can take a toll on a person’s oral health. They leave behind stubborn yellow stains on the teeth, a condition known as teeth discoloration. Brushing your teeth and going for periodic dental check-ups may not be sufficient to eliminate these stains. This is where whitening toothpaste and whitening kits come into play. Read on to learn about the best options and how they keep your teeth safe.
Why consider teeth whitening products?
Teeth whitening products are great for improving the shine of your teeth. Many people use them, thanks to their easy availability and cost-effectiveness. These products use unique techniques to improve the appearance of the teeth, such as gel trays, teeth whitening strips, and even whitening toothpaste with special formulas. As a result, achieving a bright smile and preventing teeth damage is now easy.
Two common ingredients in teeth whitening products are hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide. They minimize or eliminate the appearance of stains and discoloration of your teeth.
Best teeth whitening products
We have listed the best teeth whitening toothpaste, kits, and products below. Remember that most of these work best on clean tooth enamel surfaces, free of debris. So, brush and floss your teeth before using them and enjoy a dazzling smile.
Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder
If you are looking for a natural and sustainable alternative to the chemical whitening process, consider Active Wow Teeth Whitening Charcoal Powder. The product has three major ingredients: charcoal powder, bentonite, and orange seed oil. The charcoal content pulls out tough stains, while the unique clay bentonite helps remineralize your teeth. To top it off, orange seed oil provides anti-inflammatory benefits while aiding in removing cavities. Apply the powder correctly, and you will see results after a few uses.
Rio Smile White Advanced Teeth Whitening Kit
Get ready for brighter, whiter teeth with the Rio Simple White Advanced Teeth Whitening Kit! This revolutionary kit targets deep stains directly and safely removes them from your pearly whites. Its blue-light activation technology makes sure your enamel and gums are not damaged. Within a few treatments, your teeth will be free of stubborn discoloration.
Crest 3D White Whitestrips With Light
Looking for a whiter smile? Crest’s 3D White Whitestrips are revolutionizing home whitening treatments with breakthrough blue light technology. With just one hour of wear and ten minutes of additional exposure to the special light, you can see your teeth become brighter in only ten days! Hydrogen peroxide penetrates deeper with this innovative treatment, giving long-lasting results (up to 36 months even after discontinuing use). So, get ready for that glowing grin!
Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening System Set
Spotlight Oral Care Teeth Whitening System Set is the key to a dazzling smile. It provides the best of both worlds—whitening toothpaste and strips. The toothpaste contains hydrogen peroxide, while the strips work to eliminate teeth stains and ensure extended results. Wear the strips on dry teeth for an hour every day. After two weeks of treatment, you should notice a significant improvement and enhanced confidence in your smile.
GLO Science Brilliant Personal Teeth Whitening Device
This teeth whitening device will revolutionize how you whiten your teeth. It is fast and easy to use, providing professional results right in the comfort of your home. Thanks to its rechargeable mouthpiece, traditional whitening trays are no longer necessary. The best part is its efficient blue LED light technology, which provides quick results after each use. The package includes a travel bag, a USB power plug, a charging dock, lip care balm, a mouthpiece, vials of whitening gel, and a case with a controller.
REGENERATE Enamel Science Advanced Toothpaste
This whitening toothpaste is one of the most effortless solutions to widen your smile, given that teeth-brushing habits fall into your daily routine anyway. The consistency of the product makes it work its best and leaves you with a minty fresh breath. The NR-5™ technology patented by the brand is recognized for recreating the mineral content of the tooth enamel, which prevents erosion and cavities. Slowly and steadily, you will get a picture-perfect smile and teeth free of sensitivity.
Snow Teeth Whitening Kit With LED Light
Snow Teeth Whitening Kit removes dark stains effectively in a short span. It consists of a whitening gel and an LED light piece safe for sensitive teeth, crowns, veneers, braces, caps, and bridges. The LED light stimulates the whitening gel to remove the stains discoloring your pearly whites. Moreover, the kit’s vegan and cruelty-free ingredients make it environmentally friendly. Besides providing instantly whiter teeth, it helps you save time and money, avoid dentist visits, and go eco-friendly.
Moon Activated Charcoal Whitening Toothpaste
Moon Oral Care’s whitening toothpaste is formulated without fluoride (a chemical teeth whitener). It is known for using natural ingredients and extracts, including green and black teas, camu camu, cranberry, sea salt, tea tree oil, coconut oil, ginseng, and peppermint oil. This blend of ingredients freshens your breath, whitens and brightens your teeth, strengthens your gums, and promotes a healthy-looking smile.
Hismile Teeth Whitening Kit
People with sensitive teeth can find relief with the Hismile Teeth Whitening Kit, which uses phthalimidoperoxycaproic acid (a bleaching agent) as its primary ingredient. Unlike other peroxides, this kit’s contents, like glycerin and chamomile extract, offer a gentle and smooth experience. Easy-to-use syringes dispense gel into the tray while an accompanying blue LED light seals in maximum results.
The effectiveness of teeth whitening toothpaste and kits will vary for each person, as every individual’s situation and desired level of whiteness can differ. With so many options available today, choosing one product can be difficult. So do further research to determine which teeth whitening toothpaste, product, or kit will most benefit you. It is also essential to take necessary precautions and consult your dentist before using any product.

7 Mistakes that Internet Users Should Avoid
Everyone likes using the internet. For example, you must have googled a new word today or checked the weather this morning. Your work, play, and possibly even relationships depend on the internet. However, you could make plenty of mistakes while using it. So, here are a few things you should keep in mind, along with some of the best 5G internet plans and everything else you need to know for an ideal home network!
Seven mistakes to avoid while using the internet
Letting the cookie monster run wild
Cookies are files created on your computer whenever you visit a website. This information usually contains login data and is inherently harmless. However, some websites may use them negatively by tracking your web-behavior. To avoid this, and maintain your privacy, be careful about allowing permission to cookies. The website itself assigns first-party cookies and, thus, is mostly safe. Third-party cookies tend to come from other domains like advertising agencies and must be allowed more sparingly. Only websites like online banking portals require third-party cookies for user verification.
Piling up tabs
Anyone uncomfortable with a bar tab can tell you how annoying it is to have something weighing on you. Most people habitually open a new tab whenever they encounter something interesting but never actually read the site. This action piles up, and dozens of tabs open, resulting in poorer performance. So what you can do to reduce this tab overload is group your tabs. Grouping allows you to categorize tabs neatly and improve performance simultaneously.
Falling for click-bait ads
Hackers use spoofing to make fake links and emails look legitimate. Such advertisements are usually catchy and look like they are from legitimate sources, often offering discounts or informing you about free giveaways. However, once you click on these, hackers send viruses your way, which can pose a security threat. So while using the internet, be vigilant and avoid shady links.
Retaining the same password for everything
This tip is for you if you use the same password for different accounts. Passwords are designed to keep your data and accounts safe. However, almost everyone is guilty of using similar passwords for different accounts. This makes it easy for top hackers to get your credentials in one go. If they steal one password, they can access your other accounts too. Remember to create different passwords for your accounts and keep track of them “offline.” Writing them down in your cloud-connected notes app is unfavorable for your internet security.
Over-sharing on social media
Everyone loves showing off their lifestyle. Or maybe you felt cute or angry. Most of these situations prompt some social media posts. However, it is dangerous to share too many details on social media. It is possible that someone looking to hide their identity uses your social media profile and exploits your account. So, be wary about how much your life, interests, and family details go online. It does not mean you must be paranoid about who notices your profile. It is essential, however, to be aware of how much you disclose and don’t reveal a mini autobiography for all and sundry to see and take advantage of.
Not using protection for public WiFi
That “Free WiFi” sign at a cafe probably caught your eye. But guess what? It probably also caught the eye of your not-so-friendly neighborhood hacker. But installing a VPN (Virtual Private Network) app can keep your online activities and data safe. It gives you a virtual IP address through which no one can track you. If you are skeptical about purchasing a plan, look for free VPN apps or consider installing a VPN plugin suitable for your browser. Once activated, you can use any WiFi you want without any worries.
Disregarding double safety offered by 2FA
2FA or two-factor authentication uses an extra device apart from your password to log in. Most accounts, including Google, Instagram, and LinkedIn, have 2FA set up, so you can effortlessly increase your safety and prevent a mistake that could endanger your data. Though the additional steps might seem tedious, especially if you forget your password, it is the safer option. If someone gets hold of your passwords, they still cannot access your accounts because they need a device the website recognizes as yours.
Five best 5G internet plans for your home
Now you know what not to do online. But how do you get online? If you are considering changing your internet service provider, the following are 5 of the best 5G internet plans in the market.
Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband
The Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband mobile service marketing says it is ten times faster than other 5G internet networks. The Play More and Do More plans have unlimited text, talk, data, and many subscriptions. However, Verizon is only ideal for those living in major cities.
T-Mobile Magenta MAX
T-Mobile Magenta MAX is one of the best plans. If you use plenty of data and want it without slow-downs, along with global roaming and complimentary Netflix, this is the plan for you. However, its speed could be more consistent with other 5G internet providers.
AT&T Unlimited Starter Plan
AT&T Unlimited Starter Plan includes free texting from 120 countries, spam and fraud alerts, and unlimited talk and data. The single drawback is that the carrier slows down data speed during congestion.
UScellular
UScellular is a standalone US network accessible in Iowa, Wisconsin, and the midwestern United States. Though relatively localized, the carrier boasts of fast internet at affordable rates.
Mint Mobile
If you have a small budget but want a service like T-mobile, then Mint is the suitable phone carrier for you. You can roam freely across the US and parts of Canada and Mexico and automatically switch between 4G and 5G, depending on which is better in the region.
