The internet plays an indispensable role in one’s daily life. The digital realm offers unparalleled convenience, from enabling communication and education to shopping and entertainment. But the more the online world is embraced, the more people are exposed to potential privacy breaches in increasingly innovative ways. Protecting one’s privacy online has become an essential skill to master, and fortunately, there are several effective strategies one can employ to do this. 8 Simple Ways to Protect One’s Privacy Online Create Strong and Unique Passwords Passwords are one’s access to all personal information, so one is advised to opt for long and complex passwords. They can include a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Use Two-factor Authentication (2FA) Two-factor authentication is often used by businesses and banks. This secondary verification step adds an additional layer of protection and may include a text message, an email, or a specialized authentication app. So, even if an unauthorized individual gains access to one’s password, they would be unable to infiltrate one’s accounts without the next step. Update the Software The updates often prompted by operating systems, web browsers, and apps contain security patches aimed at rectifying vulnerabilities that hackers could potentially exploit. So, updating them ensures that one’s software is the latest, most fortified version. Limit Third-Party App Permissions Many phone apps and websites request access to various aspects of one’s digital life. So, it’s best to review the permissions one has granted to apps and revoke those that don’t require access to sensitive information. Clear Digital Footprint Browsing history, cookies, and cached data can accumulate over time and reveal one’s online activities. So, regularly clearing these traces from one’s devices can help maintain one’s privacy. Do Not Click on Phishing Emails Phishing attacks involve tricking users into revealing personal information through fake websites or emails.

As you approach retirement, most of your money has been invested in your home. A reverse mortgage is an excellent way to tap into your home’s equity. If you have paid off a home loan or have only a small amount to be paid, it is a good option to meet various financial goals. Here are the criteria for reverse mortgage eligibility: Personal criteria Age You must be 62 years or older, to apply for a reverse mortgage. Generally, as you grow older the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) amount increases. Property The home should be your primary residence, and you need to live there for the entire duration of the reverse mortgage. Rental properties and vacation homes do not qualify for such mortgages. Home equity You should be the owner of your home outright or possess a minimum of 50% home equity. There is a possibility that you may qualify for a reverse mortgage despite having some outstanding balance on your existing home loan. However, the criterion is that you must first pay off the remaining mortgage from the sanctioned amount and meet other liens. The balance funds may be used for any other purpose. Using a reverse mortgage to refinance existing debt is beneficial in reducing your monthly cash outflows. The home equity requirement varies from one borrower to another and is based on your individual situation. If you are younger and the only titleholder to the property, the home equity required may be more than 50%. We recommend using a reverse mortgage calculator to understand the requirement. Counseling Meeting with a Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Department-approved counselor is mandatory. The counselor will help you understand all about a reverse mortgage and all the associated expenses. This is to ensure you completely understand the terms and conditions and are familiar prior to applying for the mortgage.

A lot of people get stuck in debt due to many reasons. The interest rates keep adding up, taking a toll on an individual’s financial stability. In such a case, debt settlement can be quite helpful if you wish to settle a large amount. Here is a list of top 10 debt settlement companies that you can consider to help ease the burden off your shoulders. National Debt Relief National Debt Relief has the most detailed insights on their website that can help you with debt settlement. It talks about the debt qualification, the amount of money you need to pay for enrolments as well as the debt relief services that they offer. The average savings after the fees is around 30%. CreditAssociates This particular company is known for helping clients with the elimination of debt. They undertake this entire process between twenty-four to thirty-six months. They use enhanced software, and the outstanding expertise of their team to help their clients with great debt negotiation services. Pacific Debt Inc This is one of the top 10 debt settlement companies that you can consider. You need to have a minimum of $10,000 in debt to avail their services. They offer an affordable monthly program/plan with payment as well as upfront fees. The service fees can vary somewhere between 15% and 20% of the entire debt. United Debt Counselors If you are looking for an online debt settlement company, then this is a great option. It works specifically for personalized debt settlement. You need to pay about 30% to 40% of your debt to avail the reduction services. CuraDebt CuraDebt is another company that offers debt settlement services with a great savings average. It offers 40% reduction after fees. You can opt for any of their business debt solutions that they offer.

In American households, television has always been regarded as the most quintessential requirement. Since its initial arrival back in the 1900s, TV connection and its range of channels has come a long, long way. In this article, we’ll share with you six of the best cable service providers of today. DIRECTV At number one on our list is DIRECTV, which is the most prominent TV cable provider in the country. It offers you more than 200 channels that have networks all across Latin America and the US. With them, you can choose from different package schemes, and you can add or remove the premium channels, as required. Even the most basic package has more than 60 channels, payable at $35 a month. Sports lovers will especially enjoy the bumper sports-centric packages offered by DIRECTV. DISH If there’s a hot favorite in the TV provider industry, then it has to be DISH. The company started back in the 1980s and is today a Fortune 250 brand. It is primarily appreciated by customers for its premium but affordable plans that give you access to channels for movies, sports, and TV shows. With DISH, you can get a basic package of 190 channels for $59.99 per month. Verizon Fios This is the first cable service provider to offer 100% fiber-optic service in the country, which is presently available in nine states in the country. However, it has a huge customer base of five million users. Fios is synonymous with better cable, and the company indeed assures crisp quality and high download speeds. Cox Cox is one of the best cable service providers in the country. It offers seven different TV packages, of which the most basic one starts at $25 per month, and gives you access to plenty of channels, local news, and live events.

As technology gets more advanced, companies that specialize in information technology are taking steps to update their cloud data and data analytics processes. There are companies that provide cloud data integration for the smooth functioning of business operations. Here is a list of the top providers of cloud data integration. Amazon Web Services Amazon Web Services was the first company which provided cloud data integration. The popularity and the stature of the company has grown manifold and it has expanded into providing a wide array of different services to its customers. It made processors based on the Arm technology and soon enough, that became the norm in most companies that specialized in providing cloud data integration. It created a major shift in the cloud storage technology space when it brought out a second-generation Graviton processor. Every year, the company has registered a huge growth in its revenue stream. In the recent past, Amazon Web Services launched the AppFlow, which is aimed at designing SaaS workflows. Microsoft Azure Azure by Microsoft would probably be the most sought after provider of cloud data integration after Amazon Web Services. It is one of the best commercial cloud services offered by the company. Microsoft Azure pitches itself as a service provider of software that one needs to store information. It has tie-ups with some of the leading IT companies across the globe as a cloud service provider. There are certain companies, which opt for multiple-cloud based units and they seek the services of both Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure. Microsoft also works towards hybrid development and has partnered with a bunch of server vendors to put together integrated stacks that would contribute towards creating private cloud or hybrid cloud services. Google Cloud Platform There are few areas in the technological sphere that have not been explored by Google.

As the world keeps getting increasingly digital, a lot of our paperwork, too, is starting to be processed online. Digital signatures have replaced manual ones to a great extent and thick files have made way for documents that can be downloaded, read, and stored on our computer screens. In this day and age, there is a need for a system that is well-equipped to manage the signing of a large number of electronic documents. Here is a list of some of the top electronic signing software to help you make the right choice: Zoho Docs Zoho Docs has been one of the most popular document management systems for a while now. It serves as a repository of all your files and ensures that they remain safe. Apart from acting as a safe storage, it enables you to share all kinds of documents, videos, pictures, and other data online with friends, family, or those from your workplace. You can vet the software by first signing up for a trial version, which lets a single account be shared by 25 users and allots 5 GB of storage space to each user. LogicalDOC Many leading organizations use LogicalDOC as their primary source of storing important electronic documents. LogicalDOC specializes in process automation and document retrieval and is thus preferred by many companies. In addition to letting you sign electronic documents smoothly, it also allows you to create, edit, and put together any kind of document with your colleague. It has a web interface that is very convenient to use and is well-integrated with Microsoft Outlook and Office. Though it does not offer professional phone support, it has an efficient email-based customer support service. Microsoft SharePoint Microsoft SharePoint is a great tool to be had if you are required to exchange business documents frequently.

Smartphones are one of the most used gadgets on a daily basis. With new and innovative features being introduced with each upgrade, you can practically get anything and everything done as long as you have a stable internet connection. But these features can also lead to many bad habits that can be detrimental to your health and your device’s longevity. Here are four common mistakes people make and should break free from today. Buying cheap accessories Never buy cheap knock-offs or first-copy accessories for your phone, including charging and data transfer cables. Experts recommend using the ones that come with the box or switching to a superior make and quality. This is mainly a safety precaution to lower the risk of electrocution or the phone battery overcharging and bursting into flames triggered by cheap materials. Checking all notifications Notifications can be really distracting and time-consuming. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself constantly checking the phone for the latest updates. That’s a tough habit to break, especially if you are active on social media. It is only the beginning of smartphone addiction, so you must brace yourself and be mindful of the daily hours spent on the phone. React and respond only to important alerts only and try to ignore the rest of the apps until the end of the day. Relying heavily on the phone These days it might seem futile even to remember the numbers of immediate family members and friends, as we always have our phones on us. Without the phone contact list, you are completely lost and don’t know what to do. This isn’t good, and to avoid forming this habit, you must memorize essential numbers and details. Don’t rely heavily on the phone.  Using the phone alarm It can be tempting to set the alarm on your phone instead of buying an alarm clock.

As you know, Black Friday is one of the most important events on the calendar for businesses. After all, it is the biggest shopping day of the year in the country. At every retail store, many people are enthusiastic about buying all they need at massive slashed prices, although keeping a few factors in mind is necessary. Listed below are some common mistakes customers make on Black Fridays that you must avoid: Spending more than you can afford Some customers spend more than their financial prudence on a Black Friday sale. The main reason behind such spending is that customers fear missing out on the discounts later, eventually leading to the misuse of credit cards. So, it will be unwise to keep making purchases and reach the maximum limit on your credit cards. Although days such as Black Friday are worth the wait, they come again the following year before the holiday starts. Shopping without a plan If you plan to shop on Black Friday, you should have a shopping strategy. If you are attracted to one store and shop for everything there, you may miss out on better options from other stores. That is why you must plan what you need and, using the internet, browse what the various stores have to offer this holiday season. It is also wise to sign up for mail alerts that provide information on discounts and deals to learn about the early Black Friday discounts. Paying full price for add-ons It is often observed that when shoppers buy electronics, they pay full price for the add-ons. Customers often get the device or gadget at a discounted price by spending the entire amount on batteries, cables, and even chargers. Therefore, a smart move would be to look for bundle deals or discounts on everything you purchase.

Whether it is for business or pleasure, traveling calls for meticulous planning and execution. Frequent travelers probably have their own set of tried and tested tricks to easily move through airports, avoid being stranded or stuck in a foreign place, and have an altogether safe and efficient trip. As most of us resume travel after a long break, it is important to revisit and avoid common traveling mistakes for a smooth journey. Overpacking This is a common issue for most people regardless of the number of trips they have taken in the past. The art of packing light doesn’t have to be complicated. It is okay to repeat a few outfits to make space for the essentials. Also, wouldn’t you want to set aside some space in case you decide to go shopping on your trip? To avoid paying an excess baggage fee, review your itinerary and pack accordingly. No cell phone plan One of the common traveling mistakes is completely relying on Wi-Fi. However, not every café, station, or hotel is likely to offer free or reasonably fast internet. So, when you have no access to the Wi-Fi, you wouldn’t want to be stranded and have no means of calling for help. This is why you must always look for affordable cell phone plans while traveling. You may get a local sim to avoid any exorbitant traveling fees/prices on your original plan. Not notifying your bank You must always check if your cards can be used internationally, and if they are not activated for international travel, you can either do it through the mobile app or ask the bank to provide access. Credit cards can get blocked when swiped in another country if your bank has not been informed about the travel plans and destination beforehand. No buffer between flights International travel could mean that there is no direct flight to your destination, and you might have to book a connecting flight.

Tablet computers are mobile computers that have become increasingly popular, thanks to their power and portability. They are pre-installed with applications and have an intuitive touchscreen system to deliver an experience, otherwise not found in computers. Tablets come in various configurations and prices, so you must identify the one you would love to use. If you are considering whether buying one will be worth it, here are five ways to use a tablet computer smartly. Use it as a second screen to increase productivity Having a tablet computer increases productivity. You can use it as a second screen for your business where you can jot quick notes for handy information. Moreover, this device enables you to focus on one specific task as usually it allows one active tab to be displayed on the screen. This helps you save time switching browsers on your desktop or phone, and you can write, read or work without distractions. You can also use work apps and shortcuts to monitor your emails, calendar, and other work-related tasks. Using apps such as Splashtop Streamer, you can remotely access your desktop computer from your tablet. Control other electronic devices remotely You can transform your tablet computer into a universal remote for different electronic devices such as television or music systems, using certain applications. There is also a feature which lets you change channels from the tablet. All you need to do is aim the tablet directly at the TV like your remote. You can also activate any Bluetooth device in your homes, such as speakers, smart lamps, and security devices through your tablet making it an all-powerful hub. For this, you need to be within Bluetooth’s discoverable range. Ditch your computer’s wireless keyboard and mouse and use your tablet as a wireless controller, using apps such as Unified Remote.

Cyber Monday, which falls on the Monday following Black Friday every year, is one of the most significant events for shoppers. Many businesses provide massive discounts on online-only purchases, so it is the best opportunity to complete all of your holiday shopping during this time and save money. If you are looking for shoes and sneakers, here are the top ten places to head to when the sale begins this year. Nordstrom Last year, Nordstrom had an extended Cyber Monday sale. In the women’s shoe category, you could find many last-minute discounts on popular brands, such as Tory Burch, UGG, and Sam Edelman. The North Face, L.L. Bean, and Adidas had great deals on men’s shoes. Converse sneakers were available for under $50, and the Nike Waffle Trainer for $75. ALDO ALDO offered up to 50% off online and in shops; you can expect the same in 2022. It is a great place to start your pre-Thanksgiving shopping. They, too, have an extended sale that may last through Cyber Monday and beyond. Amazon While Amazon’s deals primarily focus on home and kitchen items, tech gadgets, and devices, their Fashion section has some excellent shoe deals. UGG shoes were up to 30% off, Under Armour sneakers were up to 25% off, and slippers were up to 30% off. DSW DSW will likely begin its shopping season shoe sales early this year, and the deals are expected to remain strong through Cyber Monday. Expect up to 30% off brands like Nike, Adidas, and Steve Madden. Head to the DSW website and save money! Macy’s In 2021, Macy’s held two sales. The first was a Cyber Monday sale, which featured special pricing on hundreds of men’s and women’s shoes from UGG, Michael Kors, and Adidas. The second was the Friends & Family sale, which saw 30% off select items with the code FRIEND.

During the Black Friday sale, you can enjoy big discounts on various products, including home security systems. A home security system is a smart device that protects homes from burglary and prevents crime. Since it is an expensive technology, the holiday sale is the best time to get it when retailers offer price cuts. Below are some of the best home security deals to expect in 2022 from top brands. Abode Abode is known to reduce the prices of its starter kits, cameras, and security system components during the year-end sale. This time, too, there may be a lot of discounts. Its iota All-in-One Security kit currently sells for $245, 26% off its original price of $329. The cost may drop further during the sale period. Some other Abode products to check out are the Smart Security kit and Abode Cam 2. SimpliSafe SimpliSafe’s discounts help people save money throughout the year. Ahead of Black Friday, its home security systems are selling at a discount of around 40%. Besides other products, you can expect to see its newly launched Wireless Outdoor Security Camera appear in the sale. Early shoppers may get 45% off security systems for a limited time. ADT While this year’s deals are not out yet, expect to get the newest and best-selling ADT security cameras and video doorbells from SafeStreets at the lowest prices during the Black Friday sale. You may also get a $100 gift card from SafeStreets on signing up for a new ADT home security system. Further, expect free installation for ADT video doorbells and outdoor cameras. Cove In the past, Cove has offered attractive discount codes that have helped customers save up to 50%. They may offer bigger discounts in 2022. Cove’s DIY security system is one of the best. It includes door and window sensors and indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras.