8 mistakes to avoid while browsing the internet

8 mistakes to avoid while browsing the internet

The internet is indispensable to daily routines, so much so that a few minutes spent offline could disrupt personal and work tasks. After all, the web is home to information that was previously limited to libraries. And yet, this vast space is not always safe, making sensitive information vulnerable to unauthorized access if users do not take proper precautions. So, here are a few mistakes to avoid when using the internet:

1. Opening multiple tabs
The processing power of computers lets users multitask only to a certain extent. So, irrespective of what type of setup one has at home, they must avoid opening multiple tabs on their browsers unless absolutely necessary. Doing so could lead to a lot of data being processed in the background, which may slow down the computer.

2. Using older versions of browsers
A common mistake to avoid when using the internet is not updating the browsers. Older versions of browsers could be vulnerable to phishing and spyware attacks. So, it is essential to update to the latest version that may come with bug fixes and upgrades to prevent cyber attacks.

3. Not using a VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) is an overlooked tool when using the internet. While one may take precautions to avoid cyber threats, they might still be vulnerable to data theft when connecting to an unsecured public network. A VPN masks the computer’s IP address on open networks, helping stop hackers from gaining access to the device.

4. Using one password for all accounts
Using the same password for social media, email, and banking accounts is a common move, which can be one of the biggest mistakes. This is because all it would take is for the hacker to get hold of one password to access all of these accounts. So, one must never repeat passwords and use iterations such as those with uppercase, lowercase, and special characters to create strong passwords for each account.

5. Accepting all cookies
Cookies are tasked with tracking a user’s browsing activity. While this could help open web pages faster and get quick recommendations, accepting all cookies might not be the best idea. Sometimes, cookies on spurious websites are created by hackers to give them access to private browsing history. So, one must always check the website and the requested permissions before accepting cookies.

6. Clicking on unverified links
One may come across random links in their mail or direct messages on social media. Certain links could expose devices to spyware and ransomware attacks. So, instead of clicking on these links, one should report these messages to the relevant authorities and delete them soon after to prevent data theft.

7. Neglecting two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication may seem time-consuming; however, setting it up is one of the best ways to secure social media, banking, and other online accounts. The two-factor authentication protocol sends a prompt to an associated primary device each time an account requests access. If the user has not attempted to sign in, they can easily block access and prevent unauthorized usage.

8. Oversharing online
With vlogging and other forms of social media sharing being more common than they have ever been, it is important for one to take precautions not to share personal information like banking details, residential addresses, vehicle numbers, and so on. Avoiding this mistake could help protect oneself from identity theft.

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10 best internet service deals to expect on Black Friday

The process of digitalization has brought more dependency upon the internet. So, who doesn't love a good internet deal to meet all the browsing and entertaining needs? Considering the significance of the internet, we have listed the best Black Friday deals for you. On Black Friday, internet services provide unlimited internet deals and offers that are suitable for all. Check out the list below to avail the best offers this holiday shopping season. HughesNet HughesNet internet service providers offer the best deals on Black Friday. You can get a free internet installation service from the brand. Usually, most of the providers take high installation fees. However, on Black Friday, you can get a free installation service from this brand. HughesNet also gives you $5 off when you sign up for their services. Get this home Wi-Fi for your work-from-home services. You can save up to $99 off its services during Black Friday deals. Xfinity Xfinity offers you the best 5g internet services on Black Friday. During its offer, you can get 50 Mbps internet connectivity for only $19.99 per month. The offer will end on November 21, 2022. So, hurry up and sign up with a $300 Visa Card bonus. AT&T AT&T currently provides fiber internet deals on Black Friday. You can also receive a reward of $250. New customers will get $35 per month with 30 Mbps. However, this price does not include taxes and more charges. Windstream Windstream is another internet service provider that you can rely on for top speed services. This provider is giving Kinetic Internet offers to you. There are also options for receiving free two to three months of service on exceptions. If you are a new customer, you will be happy to receive a $100 Kinetic Prepaid Visa Card. Apart from this, you can expect a massive discount on the services this Black Friday. Optimum Optimum is providing amazing Black Friday deals for you. You can get its 1GB plan free for one month. For new customers, you can get a free installation. The provider gives Wi-Fi extension for three months to the new customers. Verizon Fios Internet Verizon Fios Internet service provider offers internet services at lower prices. You can avail of these offers during Black Friday deals. This service provider will offer you a package at $49.99 per month. You do not need any annual contracts for this plan. Don’t miss the opportunity to grab offers on the monthly, quarterly, and yearly plans. CenturyLink Fiber Internet CenturyLink Fiber Internet provider offers you unlimited internet service at lower prices. The plan will cost you $65 for one month. You can also access Gigabit downloads with speed upto 940 mbps. Look for the offers and deals this Black Friday. EarthLink EarthLink internet service providers are the best among many of the providers. You can choose this service without any doubt. However, getting plans at lower deals is a difficult task. With Black Friday deals, you can now avail services with 75 Mbps speed. You can expect discounts on such plans. Cox Cox provides some of the best deals on Black Friday for internet services. You can avail of the plans for $49.99 per month. At this price, you can get a speed of 100 Mbps. This internet service provider does not ask for a yearly contract as well. Mediacom Mediacom, being a good internet service provider, will present some great deals this upcoming shopping season. Their most popular plan is the $19.99 per month plan. Under this plan, you can get up to 100 Mbps speed for smooth downloads. These are the top 10 internet service deals you can find around Black Friday. Keep a check on the website or follow the brand's social media platforms for some early bird access to save big.

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4 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Switching Phone Carriers

Usually, when people find cheaper phone plans, they are automatically willing to switch their cell phone carriers. Suppose one is thinking of changing their cell phone provider. In that case, one can consider several factors, including the current plan's billing cycle and alternative phone plans, before making a choice. One must review what goes into switching phone carriers, and one can look at the policies of companies like Verizon. 1. Don't ignore the early termination fees Verizon can subject users to an early termination fee when they cancel their contract. The longer they carry on with the plan, the more they will be treated to a lesser termination fee. It can cost users up to $350 and will be reduced by $15 monthly. Sometimes, the fees can be substantial, so one must know how much it will cost to break the agreement. For companies like Verizon, users can also contact their current carrier to put forth any clarifications and specific details they need, which will be provided by their online customer support service or local store. 2. Remember to diligently compare plans and prices before switching One common mistake people frequently make is settling for a cheaper phone plan but missing out on many additional services and benefits. If one is dissatisfied with their current phone carrier and wants to change, they can research the plans that best suit their needs. Sometimes, you will find out that you are overpaying for a service you do not even need or missing out on crucial services. Some of the popular Verizon phone plans are as follows: Verizon Unlimited Plus has 5G ultra-wideband and 30 GB of premium mobile hotspot data. Verizon Business Plans include features like business-grade data security and unlimited talk, text, and data and will cost you up to $150 for five lines. Verizon Prepaid Plans have a range of prepaid plans without annual contracts or credit checks and a fluid payment scheme. 3. Ensure services extend to areas where one frequents While most major network providers have well-established country-wide access, one must ensure their chosen network works in their area. This is why experts avoid giving straight or blanket advice on carriers to choose from. For instance, if one is in a city like New York, T-Mobile and Verizon offer top-notch services, while Verizon offers more reliable services in rural states. Potential customers can also consult their friends and family in their area before switching services. If one is an international traveler and frequently needs efficient international phone services, assess the international plans before making a choice, as international plans can sometimes be expensive. Verizon offers phone and Internet plans like TravelPass, which gives unlimited data, talk, and text in at least 200 countries. 4. Make sure one's phone is unlocked from the carrier Sometimes, the device that one buys can be tied to their carrier. Today, most models are unlocked, and users can easily switch to another carrier in case they are unlocked. However, the procedure to unlock one's phone is simple, and one can also get the help of a professional service. When users buy a phone through Verizon, they automatically lock it for 60 days, after which it will be unlocked. Failing to unlock the phone will prevent using the new carrier's SIM, and one will have to use another compatible device. Ensure you do not port your number and follow due procedure. Contact your new carrier and ask for their help to port the number to the new carrier. Switching to Verizon carriers If one is planning to switch to Verizon as their phone carrier, here are some points that they can remember: Check Verizon's map coverage for the area's signal strength and data mileage. Understand their payment policies and their various phone and Internet plans. Look for perquisites offered in terms of network, streaming services, and other lucrative perquisites. Review the current contract under the previous carrier to understand if there are any early termination fees and the due procedure for that. So, switching phone carriers can be a fresh start for one, but there are certain steps that one needs to take to ensure that the transfer from one carrier to another is smooth. By avoiding these common mistakes and pitfalls, one can ensure that a better carrier will offer enhanced service, coverage, and a satisfactory mobile experience. Always keep a close eye on bills and monitor plans to keep a constant pulse on the effectiveness of the new carrier. Feel free to reach out to the nearest local store in case of any queries or problems.

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