In this article, we will explore the concept of a honeypot in cybersecurity and how deception honeypot technology is utilized to strengthen digital defenses.

What is a Honeypot and How Does it Work?

If you’re wondering, “What is ReasonLabs?” or “How can it help protect me online?” you’re in the right place. This blog will explore how the new Online Security ReasonLabs application has become one of the best tools for safeguarding social security online, protecting your identity, and ensuring privacy.

What Is the Best Digital Secure App? ReasonLabs Application

In this review, we’ll tell you how RAV Endpoint Protection lives up to its promises and how it compares to some of the competition. 

Is RAV Endpoint Protection Legit?

October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month and to learn more about consumers’ internet habits and the cybersecurity issues they face, ReasonLabs commissioned a survey of 7,484 consumers across the United States from August 23 - September 4, 2024. The survey results highlight significant online security, privacy, and identity theft issues.

2024 Consumer Cybersecurity Pulse Report

FaceTime is one of Apple’s most cherished apps, offering effortless video calls to iPhones, iPads, and Mac users worldwide. However, FaceTime can occasionally encounter problems such as technical glitches, or UX issues like activation. 

Why Is My FaceTime Not Working? How To Activate FaceTime

If you are a Canadian traveling abroad or someone trying to enhance your privacy and security online, utilizing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a must-do. This article will help walk you through the process of how to get a Canadian IP Address.

How To Get A Canadian IP Address

The word ‘games’ implies fun – but some of these popular online experiences, even those aimed at kids, contain worrying content. Here's what you should be looking out for.

7 Alarming Online Games to Watch Out For

We'll explore effective strategies and tips to help you figure out how to prevent trackers and how to stop being tracked online.

Tired of Being Tracked? How to Stop Being Tracked Online

This blog post will guide you through understanding iMessage, troubleshooting common issues, and teach you how to enable iMessage.

iMessage Not Working? Here's How To Enable iMessage

 In this article, we'll detail how to know if your phone is hacked, what to dial to see if your phone is hacked, describe different signs your phone is hacked, and finally what you should do if your phone is hacked.

What To Dial To See If Your Phone Is Hacked

If you are a Navy Federal Credit Union member and you are wondering how to report Navy Federal credit fraud, read this blog.

How To Report Navy Federal Credit Fraud

This detailed article will dive deep into what is an IP UK address, how to get a UK IP address, how to use a UK IP address, RAV mobile VPN for iPhone, and more. 

How to Get a UK IP Address

If you’re looking for information on how to reprieve AOL Mail, look no further! Retrieving your AOL mail is a straightforward process and for mobile users, AOL also offers an app for Android and iOS devices.

What is AOL? How to Retrieve AOL Mail

Is identity theft protection worth it? Utilizing identity theft protection can provide peace of mind, especially for seniors who may be more susceptible to fraud and online scams. 

What Is The Best Identity Theft Protection For Seniors?

You might be wondering how to get a US IP address, so let’s dive into why you might want one in the first place, what a US IP address look like, how can I get a US IP address, and more. 

How To Get A US IP Address

Mukbang has gained immense popularity across various social media platforms, particularly on video-sharing sites like YouTube, Twitch, and platforms that support live streaming. But what does 'mukbang' and ASMR mean?

What Is Mukbang and ASMR? Effects Of This Social Media Trend

Who doesn’t love a good fishing trip? Go ahead, picture the scene: it’s just you,…

What is Spear Phishing? How to Defend Against Spear Phishing

Identity theft is a growing concern that can have severe consequences for your financial health and personal security - so being able to check if your identity has been stolen is crucial.

How To Check For Identity Theft: 7 Tips For Identity Protection

The csrss.exe Trojan is a type of malware that disguises itself as the legitimate csrss.exe process. Cybercriminals exploit this to hide malicious activities within a process that appears to be a trusted system file. The csrss.exe Trojan can open backdoors, steal sensitive information, and allow unauthorized access to your system.


How To Remove csrss.exe Trojan: A Comprehensive Guide

As Instagram continues to evolve, so do the strategies employed by scammers on Instagram. Staying vigilant and informed is essential in safeguarding yourself from these threats. 

Instagram Scam Messages: How To Avoid Them & Protect Yourself

The svchost.exe process is a fundamental part of the Windows operating system, responsible for running essential services efficiently. However, its importance also makes it a target for cybercriminals who create malware disguised as svchost.exe.

What Is svchost.exe Malware? How To Protect Your System 

The security of your Wi-Fi network is paramount in protecting our data and online behavior. This blog explores the potential vulnerabilities, signs of compromise, and effective strategies to protect your Wi-Fi from unauthorized access.

Can Someone Hack Your Wi-Fi Password? Signs & How To Fix It

Ticketmaster is the latest company to suffer a data breach, leading to compromised customer data.
Discovering that your data has been breached can be a troubling experience, but recognizing the signs early can help you mitigate the damage and take appropriate action.

Latest Data Breach: Were You Affected By Ticketmaster Hack?

Search engines are indispensable tools for accessing information. However, as concerns about online privacy grow, many users are seeking alternatives that prioritize their personal data's security. 

Best Secure Search Engines: How A VPN Can Help

ReasonLabs is proud to be recognized by Virus Bulletin alongside other top-tier security providers for excellence in malware detection and prevention

RAV Endpoint Protection Earns A+ Grade In VB100 Certification

With the allure of new online games and the temptation of obtaining them for free, many young gamers might find themselves downloading pirated software. As a parent, it's crucial to understand the risks associated with this practice and how you can protect your children from potential harm.

Is Your Child Gaming Online? How To Avoid Pirated Software

The Zeus virus, also known as Zbot, is one of the most infamous and persistent malware threats to ever hit the cybersecurity landscape. In this blog, we'll delve into what the Zeus virus is, how it operates, and how you can protect yourself from its harmful effects.

Zeus Virus Detected! The Signs You Need To Know

As the frequency of cyber threats and data breaches in the digital age are rampant, consumers are increasingly concerned about the security of their online activities. Web browser extensions, such as Online Security from ReasonLabs, play a crucial role in empowering users to defend themselves against potential threats and data breaches.

Digital Identity Protection: Why Data Monitoring Is An Important Defense

One often overlooked aspect of digital hygiene is clearing out your Wi-Fi history. In this blog post, we'll explore why you might want to delete your Wi-Fi history, how to do it, and some additional tips for keeping your digital life organized and secure.

Digital Spring Clean! How To Delete Wi-Fi History

While VPNs are commonly associated with desktop computers, their utility extends seamlessly to mobile devices, including Android smartphones and tablets. Using RAV VPN for Android will enhance your online security - find out how!

Best VPN For Android: How To Download RAV VPN 

With the rise of mobile payment platforms like Apple Pay, the ease of sending and receiving money has never been simpler. However, with this convenience also comes the risk of scams and fraudulent activities.

Apple Pay Scams: How To Prevent These Scams

The recent AT&T data breach has underscored the evolving threat landscape and the importance of robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data, such as the use of the Online Security browser extension. 

AT&T’s Massive Data Breach: All You Need To Know

As one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, Instagram makes it easier than ever to make connections, share experiences, and discover new trends. However, amidst the endless scroll of captivating content lurks the darker world of scams - namely, crypto scams.

How To Recognize Bitcoin Mining Instagram Scams

Restrictions on access to advanced technologies, export control regulations, and concerns about misuse or abuse of AI capabilities can all contribute to limitations on availability of OpenAI. If OpenAI services are not available in your country, there may be a few reasons behind this!

Uh-Oh! Why OpenAI Services Are Not Available In Your Country

Removing hard inquiries from your credit report can be a strategic move to improve your creditworthiness and financial standing.

Secret Ways To Remove Hard Inquiries From Credit Reports Now!

Customer data breaches have become an all-too-common occurrence, posing significant risks to individuals' privacy, financial security, and personal well-being. From large-scale cyberattacks on multinational corporations to targeted phishing schemes aimed at unsuspecting individuals, the dangers of data breaches loom large.

Online Dictionary Data Leak Occurs! What You Need To Know About The Latest Data Breach

The surge in online scams reported by the FBI, and subsequent huge financial losses, reveals the significant threats to consumers' financial security and personal information. But how is this happening? How are malevolent actors managing to get away with so much?

$12.5 Billion Losses From Online Scams! All You Need To Know

Tax identity theft is a serious concern, but with awareness, vigilance, and the right cybersecurity measures, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams.

Tax Identity Theft: Protect Yourself from Tax Return Scams & Frauds

It would be nice to believe that giveaway offers on social media platforms are real; however, as with most online ‘too good to be true’ scenarios, this is unfortunately generally not the case. We’ve rounded up some of the most common giveaway scams that occur on the YouTube platform.

Fake YouTube Giveaway Scams: How To Recognize Them!

.msi files are widely used for software distribution and installation due to their standardized format and reliability. While .msi files themselves are not inherently unsafe, they can be manipulated by malicious actors to deliver malware

MSIExec.Exe Files: How To Know If I Can Uninstall Or If It's Safe   

Malicious code refers to specific lines or segments of code within a program or script that are designed to carry out malicious actions e.g. cause harm, exploit vulnerabilities, or compromise the security and functionality of a computer system, network, or device without the knowledge or consent of the user. 

How To Avoid Downloading Malicious Code: Malware Warning!

This January 2024, the ‘Mother of All Breaches’ is making headlines as a ‘supermassive’ data leak, affecting no less than 26 billion leaked data records. It's time to change your passwords and scan your email to check for personal data breaches!

Data Leaked! How To Secure Your Accounts After The "MoAB"

The increasing reliance on the WhatsApp messaging app has brought to light several security concerns that users should be aware of to protect their privacy and data.

WhatsApp Security Issues: Risks & Dangers Hiding In Your Phone!

Java, a versatile programming language, has become an integral part of countless applications and websites. With its widespread use, scammers have seized the opportunity to exploit users through deceptive Java update scams.

Java Update Scam: Is It Safe To Download Or A Fake Virus?

One crucial tool in the arsenal of identity protection is the Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). This unique six-digit number adds an extra layer of security to your identity, helping to prevent unauthorized use of your Social Security Number (SSN) and thwart potential identity theft.

Identity Theft Defense: How To Find My Identity Protection Pin

By preventing data breaches and ensuring secure communication, Endpoint Protection safeguards your sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands. 

EPP vs Antivirus: Unmasking the Endpoint Protection You Need

Cyber threats are continually evolving, and one particularly stealthy technique that has gained notoriety is DLL injection. This method allows attackers to compromise the integrity of a system by manipulating dynamic link libraries (DLLs). 

What is DLL Injection Attack? A Hacker's Secret Weapon Exposed

The latest report from ReasonLabs, The Cashback Extension Killer, discusses a set of malicious web extensions disguised as fake VPNs, delivered by a Trojan installer, and distributed through torrent files, that were then live on the Chrome Web Store for months, ultimately affecting over 2 million users! What can we learn from this?

Fake VPNs: How To Prevent Them On Your Device

In the realm of software and digital media, keygens have a notorious reputation. This blog will explore what keygens are, how they work, the associated risks, and how users can navigate the delicate balance between legitimate and illegitimate keygens while safeguarding their cybersecurity.

What Is A Keygen?: How To Safely Activate Software

Rogue security software, often synonymous with fake antivirus, encompasses a broader category of malicious applications that portray themselves as legitimate security tools. This may also be known as ‘rogueware’, ‘rogue antivirus’ or ‘scareware.’

What’s Fake Antivirus & Can It Trigger Rogue Security Software? 

'Weak security’ in the context of Wi-Fi typically refers to vulnerabilities or inadequacies in the security measures implemented to protect a wireless network. The security of a Wi-Fi network is crucial to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and other potential threats. 

Weak Security Wi-Fi? 10 Ways to Strengthen & Fix Security Wi-Fi

The festive season is upon us, bringing joy, warmth, and unfortunately, an increase in holiday scams designed to exploit the goodwill and online shopping frenzy. As you prepare for the festivities, it's crucial to be aware of common scams that could jeopardize your holiday cheer.


12 Scams of Christmas: How To Avoid Holiday Phishing Scams!

Whether you're exploring new websites, chatting on messaging apps, or interacting with AI software like ChatGPT, it's crucial to distinguish between what's real and genuine, and what's fake and possibly malicious. 


How to Recognize Fake ChatGPT & Fake Domains

As businesses and individuals alike host crucial information on web servers, understanding the importance of security for servers and adopting best practices is imperative. In this blog, we'll delve into the realm of web server security and explore its significance, different methods to secure web servers, and the best network security practices to keep your digital fortress robust.


What is Web Server Security? Best Secure Practices To Employ

WhatsApp is a great way to keep in touch with far-off friends and relatives but it also can be a scammer's digital playground.

Coming to a Smartphone Near You! The Latest Round of WhatsApp Scams

This Cybersecurity Awareness Month, take proactive steps to protect yourself online. With ReasonLabs products by your side, you can navigate the digital landscape with confidence.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month: How To Empower Your Cybersecurity Journey

Understand the ways in which identity fraud can occur, and the depth to which it can affect the victim.

How Does Identity Theft Happen? Learn to Safeguard Yourself

ReasonLabs’ Revenge of the Unitrix report brings to the fore the latest research on how text tricks can make us run malicious code on our devices.  But what do you as a consumer need to know? Can fonts have viruses? Can font files contain malware and other cybersecurity risks? 

Can Fonts Have Viruses? Cybersecurity: Fonts Dangers To Avoid 

Cybercriminals and hackers constantly seek ways to exploit vulnerabilities in security systems to gain access to sensitive financial information, including credit card numbers.

Credit Card Hacking: How Do People Steal Credit Card Numbers?

Investigate the VBS downloader Trojan VBS:malware-gen detection, and learn how to prevent this malware from attacking your devices. 

What is VBS:Malware-gen?

By actively monitoring your credit card activities and providing alerts, credit card monitoring services enable you to detect and respond to identity theft in its early stages.

What is Credit Monitoring? 6 Pros of Credit Monitoring Services

Find out more about tax identity theft and how you can prevent yourself from becoming a victim.

What is Tax Identity Theft? How You Can Protect Yourself

What is a credit report and what is a credit inquiry? This blog examines both of these subjects, as well as provides some top tips for the removal of hard inquiries on a credit report.

Top Tips For How To Remove Hard Inquiries From Credit Report

Your social security number (SSN) is one of the most crucial pieces of personal information you possess. Unfortunately, it is also a highly sought-after target for identity thieves and fraudsters.

Is It Safe To Text Social Security Numbers? 10 SSN Safety Tips 

ReasonLabs researchers discovered multiple files downloaded to its users’ devices which were supposed to be Super Mario Bros. but were instead files distributing malicious software.

The Super Mario Bros. Pirate

ReasonLabs has developed a new Dark Web Monitoring feature as part of its Online Security Extension. So what is the dark web and how does dark web monitoring software help protect the consumer?

What Is Dark Web Monitoring And Why Should Everyone Use It?

How can Microsoft Office documents be used as cyber threats and what can users do to protect themselves?

Office Documents Are Being Weaponized. How May It Affect You?

Let’s take a look at how and why parental controls can offer added cybersecurity, and why it is so important.

Cyber Safety For Every Member of Your Family

Here are the top cybersecurity trends home users need to know for 2023.

Top Cybersecurity Trends for 2023: What Do Home Users Need To Know?

Here's how Chrome push notifications work and why you need Online Security.

How Do Chrome Push Notifications Work and What Security Risks Are Involved?

Browser Extensions: Will They Boost My Online Experience?

Endpoint Protection: All You Need to Know for Maximum Security

It’s Halloween! Scary Cyber Attacks and How To Avoid Them

It’s almost October – known more fondly in the cybersecurity world as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2022: 5 Tips for Consumers

  It’s the last week of the summer holidays, and parents, kids, teens, college students and teachers alike are getting ready to of back to school.

Back to School: 5 Top Cybersecurity Tips at this Busy Time

Filters, Protects, Blocks: 3 Ways A DNS Ensures Safer Online Experience

Here are out top tips for keeping you and your kids cyber safe on this World Social Media Day.

6 Top Tips for Staying Cyber Safe on World Social Media Day

Betcha didn’t know it, but June is Internet Safety Month. You probably missed that section in…

June is Internet Safety Month; How Safe are Your Kids on Social Media?

Most of us don’t realize just how easy and common it is for hackers to…

Why Webcam And Mic Protection Is A Must-Have

Technology keeps changing our lives — in most cases for the better, but in some…

Improving Your Cybersecurity Habits: 5 Tips for Digital Hygiene

Spring is here! Bunnies are hopping, birds are chirping – and little colored eggs are…

The Easter Egg Hunt meets Cybersecurity! 3 tips for a Cyber Safe Easter

Having reviewed in depth the cybersecurity threats that have been facing consumers worldwide in our…

Year Of the Miner: Cybersecurity Threats Exposed in ReasonLabs' 2022 Report

  Roses are red,  Violets are blue; Protect your online presence In 2022 Hearts, flowers,…

Love is in the Air! Don’t Let Cybercrime Ruin Your Special Day!

February 3rd is Harry Potter Book Night! Kids and adults around the world are looking…

Harry Potter and the Cybersecurity Solution: Tips to Stay Cyber Safe in 2022!

Data Privacy Day occurs annually on January 28th; it represents an international effort to raise…

How You Can Protect Yourself This Data Privacy Day

News broke last week concerning a Monero mining malware found in a copy of the…

Don't Get Stuck in its Web! How to Combat Spider-Man Mining Malware

 Spider-miner, spider-miner, does whatever a miner can. Mine a coin, spawn a thread, Uses…

Spider-Miner: With Great Power Comes Great Problems!

It’s that time of year again – mulled wine, pine needles, cuddly sweaters, and maybe…

Jingle Bells Are On Their Way! Beware Of These Christmas Scams

With Cyber Monday looming, and ads galore headed our way, we know that we can…

Cyber Monday: The Online Shopper's Dream! But Are You Shopping Securely?

You’ve probably all seen the announcement that October is ‘National CyberSecurity Awareness Month’ – and…

Be Cyber Aware: Where Do You Find the Best Antivirus in Oct 2021?

It’s Halloween this week – a time for people to dress up in scary costumes,…

Don’t Get Spooked: How to Recognize Cyber Demons Before They Find You!

The technology for virtual private networks (VPNs) dates back to 1996 when Microsoft employees created…

VPNs: Who? What? When? Where? Why? And How?

One manifestation of freedom is the privilege to be a small business owner. Freedom and…

Independence Day: Cybersecurity Brings Independence to SMBs

The Personal Rights in Defense and Education (PRIDE) movement has made significant progress in raising…

The LGBTQ Community Faces New Cyber Threats 

Dear Dads, As Father’s Day approaches and you prepare for tasty outdoor barbecues, fun family…

Note to Dad: The Nuts and Bolts of Cybersecurity

The COVID-19 pandemic was not a one-time, over-and-done traumatic experience. It continues to be a…

The COVID-19 Effect: A Surge in Online Retail AND Cyber Attacks

Reason Cybersecurity has joined the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA) to improve global cybersecurity in…

ReasonLabs has joined the Microsoft Intelligent Security Association (MISA)

No more cookies in our future? In today’s digital world, data is the mainstay of…

No More Cookies in our Future?

Mother’s Day is one of the most popular holidays of the year and the second…

What NOT to Give Your Mom on Mother's Day

Cyber-attacks against insurance companies are growing exponentially; so is the damage they’re causing. Furthermore, because…

Why are Cybercriminals Eyeing Insurance Companies?

## Stop internet tracking
In the digital age, our lives are increasingly intertwined with the internet. From shopping to socializing, we rely on the online world for countless aspects of our daily routine. However, this convenience comes at a price: privacy. Our focus should be to stop internet tracking.  


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In the vast online landscape, we are constantly being tracked online and monitored by various entities. Whether it's advertisers, social media platforms, or even governments, the tracking of our online activities has become ubiquitous. But here's the good news: you don't have to resign yourself to being a passive participant in this surveillance game. With a little knowledge and proactive measures, you can regain control of your online privacy and limit the amount of tracking your experience. 

In this blog, we'll explore effective strategies and practical tips to help you figure out how to prevent trackers, how to stop being tracked online, and how to stop a website from tracking you. We'll emphasize the importance of education and awareness, empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your digital privacy and stop internet tracking. By implementing these strategies, you'll be taking significant steps toward reclaiming your online autonomy and preserving your personal data.

## How does internet tracking work?
So, how does internet tracking work? Well, internet tracking is made possible by a few different factors, however the most prevalent is the use of Cookies. Cookies are small packets of data that collect information about you to “enhance” your browsing experience. There are many different types of cookies that function for various reasons, such as Session Cookies, First-Party Cookies, This-Party Cookies, Flash Cookies, and more. Cookies are what make browsing experiences feel customized for the user. Cookies remember your preferences, the items in your Amazon shopping cart, and your user name, among other things. So yes, cookies are important mini-files that make your experiences on websites feel like they were tailor-made for you.

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## Why companies track your data
To answer the question of why companies trakc your data, we can simply say companies track your data for personalization objectives. Third-Party Cookies are placed on sites by ad networks and get stored in your web browser with the intent of collecting data on you for marketing purposes. They record your every move as you cross the internet. Your likes, dislikes, and browsing habits are worth a lot of money to advertisers, and ads that are targeted specifically to a user’s browsing history are more valuable than non-targeted campaigns.

Let’s imagine you’re on the lookout for a new refrigerator. You head over to Google to check out prices and models. Afterward, you should expect that ads for refrigerators are going to follow you around from website to website. This is because advertisers can see that you’re in the “new fridge zone” and they’re hoping that you’ll click on one of their ads and that your ad click will eventually convert into a sale.

## How to avoid being tracked and how to stop internet trackers
Fear not, there are tactics you can learn to combat the rampant tracking out there on the internet today and stop web tracking. If the idea of being watched gives you the creeps, here's how to avoid being tracked and how to stop internet trackers:

- **Enable Do Not Track**: Sure, cookies are a normal part of surfing the web but [you can choose to disable them](https://allaboutdnt.com/) by going into your browser’s settings under “Privacy” and choosing to “Send a Do Not Track Request” to websites. In theory, at least, this means you can stop website tracking because websites shouldn’t place tracking cookies into your browser… but it doesn’t really work out like that. Honoring the request on the part of websites is voluntary and thus an unfortunate amount of websites will still take the liberty of tracking.
- **Use HTTPS everywhere**: The S in HTTPS means that the information being transferred uses the Hypertext Transfer Protocol over Secure, which is a secure data transfer protocol. Created by the Electronic Frontier Foundation, one of the leading non-profit digital rights groups, [their plugin](https://www.eff.org/Https-everywhere) forces websites that use the regular not-as-secure HTTP data transfer protocol to use HTTPS, thereby enhancing the security and privacy of your data through encryption.
- **Use Mozo browser security**: Using a browser security and privacy-focused tool like [Mozo](https://getmozo.com) can provide protection against intrusive trackers, cookies, malicious URLs, harmful extensions, and more. These privacy and safety features work together to help stop internet trackers and keep you safe while surfing the web.

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## Stop Google from tracking search history
Google is the most widely used search engine in the world with [over 80%](https://www.statista.com/statistics/220534/googles-share-of-search-market-in-selected-countries/) of desktop search traffic originating from it - odds are, you are a user. So what are some practices you can use to stop Google from tracking search history and potentially invading your privacy?

One way is to set up Incognito Mode on your Chrome browser. Also known as Hidden or Private Mode, this is one of the easiest ways to stop some of the effects of tracking. Note we said “some”, and that’s an important caveat.  Incognito mode does keep your website history from being stored and reported to ad networks. But your IP address can still be tracked and your internet service provider and websites that you log into will still recognize you, leaving you open to some forms of tracking.

## How to stop websites from tracking you
So, by now have you asked yourself, “How to block online trackers?” Figuring out how to stop websites from tracking you is no easy task. There are, however, many tools that you can use to help. Below are just a few examples of cyber tools you can leverage in order to stop trackers from following you around online:

- **VPNs**: Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure, encrypted “tunnel” from your device to the VPN server, ensuring the security and privacy of your connection. It also hides your IP address, making it look like the traffic is coming only from the VPN service provider. For example, with a VPN, you can use public Wi-Fi spots safely and surf the web with confidence.
- **TOR (The Onion Router)**: To achieve near-total anonymity, consider using the famed TOR browser. By routing your traffic through a network of encrypted layers, the user’s origin is very well hidden. Anyone who tries to track your web traffic only sees the relay computers moving the traffic around from layer to layer. This means that advertisers can’t track you at all. 
- **Private search engines**: Political dissenters and whistleblowers aside, many privacy advocate experts agree that using TOR is perhaps a bit of an overkill for average web users. You could instead use a private search engine, such as [DuckDuckGo](https://duckduckgo.com/), to stop online tracking.

These methods aren’t foolproof, but in truth, to greatly increase your online privacy you don’t need to achieve 100% anonymity. What you need is a solid understanding of what’s at stake and what you can do to mitigate the effects of tracking. And the more methods you use, the better off you’ll be. To learn more about privacy protection online and how to stay secure, visit [GetMozo.com](http://getmozo.com). 

shutterstock_1477990172-scaled.jpg

If you’re an iPhone user, you probably use iMessage—the messaging application exclusive to Apple phones. But what happens when iMessage isn’t working as expected? This blog post will guide you through understanding iMessage, troubleshooting common issues, and teach you how to enable iMessage.

**Think you've been hacked? Take our quick Security Quiz to find out how safe you are online.**


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/>

## What is iMessage?
Let’s start by answering the question, what is iMessage? iMessage is Apple's homegrown messaging service used throughout its mobile, computing, and wearable products. It allows users to send text messages, media like photos and videos, and more over Wi-Fi networks or using cellular data. This is done instead of relying on traditional SMS messages. iMessage is unique because it offers end-to-end encryption, features like read receipts and typing indicators, as well as provides the ability to send messages and media using Apple’s servers.

You can tell if a message was sent via iMessage if the text bubble is shown with the color blue. If the bubble is shown as green, the message was sent via SMS text. iMessage is obviously very popular due to its seamless integration throughout Apple’s proprietary ecosystem. However, when it stops working, it can be extremely frustrating. Let’s dive into some of the more common issues associated with iMessage and learn how to fix them.

## iMessage Not Working?
Is your iMessage not working? Well, there could be several reasons why your iMessage is not functioning properly. Some of the more common issues include:

- **Not Connected To The Internet:** iMessage does require you to have an active internet connection to be able to use it. Ensure your phone, iPad, iMac, or Apple Watch is connected to Wi-Fi or has a reliable cellular connection.
- **Service Outages:** Apple’s iMessage servers do suffer outages and go down from time to time. You can check Apple's System Status page to see if there are any sort of ongoing outages anywhere in the world.
- **Bugs:** Sometimes using an old or outdated version of iOS might present software bugs that can affect iMessage. Make sure your device is updated to the latest version operating system available.
## How to Troubleshoot iMessage Issues
Here are some ways you can troubleshoot iMessage issues:

1. **Restart Your Connected Device:** A simple restart can sometimes resolve connectivity issues.
2. **Check Your Settings:** Go to Settings > Messages and make sure iMessage is on.
3. **Sign Out and Back In Again:** Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive, tap on your Apple ID, and select "Sign Out" and sign back in.
4. **Reset Your Network:** Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
5. **Contact Apple Support:** If none of these steps work, it may be time to reach out to Apple Support for further assistance.


**How safe are you online? Take our quick Security Quiz to find out.**

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## How to Enable iMessage
If you find that iMessage isn’t working and you are wondering how to enable iMessage, here’s how to ensure iMessage is turned on:

1. **Open Your Settings:** Go to the Settings app.
2. **Find Messages:** Select Messages.
3. **Toggle iMessage:** If the iMessage switch is off, switch it on.
4. **Sign In with Your Apple ID:** Sign in with your Apple ID if needed.

After following these steps, you can should be able to start sending messages through iMessage.

## iMessage Activation Error
When trying to enable iMessage, you might encounter an iMessage activation error. This can sometimes happen during the initial setup process and it may be caused by a few different factors:

- **Issues With Your Network:** A weak internet connection can deter iMessage.
- **Time Zone Settings:** If your time zone is incorrectly set, it could cause problems.
- **Apple ID Issues:** An issue with your Apple ID could prevent iMessage from activating.
### iMessage Activation Error - How to Fix It

1. **Check Your Connection:** Ensure sure you’re connected to a stable Wi-Fi network or that you have a strong cellular data connection.
2. **Update Your OS:** Go to Settings > General > Software Update to ensure you’re running the latest version.
3. **Correct the Time Zone:** Go to Settings > General > Date & Time and make sure "Set Automatically" is turned on.
4. **Sign Out and Back In:** Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive, tap your Apple ID, and sign out. Sign back in again.


**How safe are you online? Take our quick Security Quiz to find out.**


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## How to Unsend iMessage
Wondering how to unsend iMessage? A newer feature in iOS is the ability to do just that. This can come in handy if you have sent a message by mistake. Here’s how to do it: 

1. **Open iMessage:** Find the conversation where you sent the wrong or unintended message.
2. **Long Press the Message:** Hold down on the blue bubble.
3. **"Undo Send":** If the option is available, you’ll see "Undo Send". Tap it, and the iMessage will disappear from the conversation.

When looking into how to unsend iMessage, it’s important to note that the ability to unsend a message is time-sensitive. You can only unsend messages within a certain time frame, typically within two minutes of sending. Also, it’s important to note that the recipient must be using iMessage.

## How to Know If Someone Blocked You on iMessage

Are you curious how to know if someone blocked you on iMessage? Although Apple doesn’t notify you directly, there are a few signs that could indicate you've been blocked:

- **Message Not Delivered:** If you send a message and don’t see the “Delivered” or “Read” receipts, it could mean that you’ve been blocked. But this might also happen if the person doesn’t have this feature turned on.
- **Calls Go To Voicemail:** If you call the person and it goes to voicemail without ringing, this could be another sign.
- **Green Bubbles:** If your blue iMessage bubbles have suddenly turned green, indicating an SMS was sent, this may suggest you’ve been blocked.

## iMessage on Android
One of the most common questions iPhone users ask is whether iMessage on Android is available. As of now, iMessage on Android is not available and it remains exclusive to Apple phones, computers, or wearables. There are some workarounds though and third-party apps do that claim to bring iMessage to Android do exist. If you are looking for iMessage on Android you can do the following:

- **Cross-Platform Messaging:** Apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram offer similar features and work across both iOS and Android operating systems.
- **Using a Mac as a Hub:** You can use a Mac as a relay to send iMessages to an Android device, although this is a more complex process than using an iPhone.


## Stop Sharing Location Without Notifying iMessage
If you want to stop sharing location without notifying iMessage, you do have a few options:

1. **Turn Off Location Services:** Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services and toggle it off. 
2. **Stop Sharing from Find My:** Open the Find My app, select the person you’re sharing with, and tap "Stop Sharing My Location."
3. **Use Airplane Mode:** Taking advantage of Airplane Mode will stop sharing your location, but it also disables both of your Wi-Fi and cellular services.

## How to Recover Deleted iMessages
If you have accidentally deleted an important iMessage and are wondering how to recover deleted iMessages, don’t worry; there are ways to recover deleted messages

1. **Restore from a Backup:** You can restore your device to recover deleted messages. Go to Settings > General > Reset > Erase All Content and Settings, and then restore from an iCloud backup that contains the iMessages.
2. **Use Third-Party Applications:** Some popular ones include Dr.Fone and PhoneRescue.
3. **Contact Your Mobile Cell Carrier:** Some carriers may keep records of your text messages. Contact them to see if they can retrieve them.
4. **Check Other Devices:** If you use iMessage across multiple devices, the messages might still be available on one of them.

## Conclusion
iMessage is an extremely convenient and easy to use tool, but it’s not without its issues. Whether you’re trying to enable iMessage, troubleshoot issues, or recover deleted messages, understanding how iMessage works and how to manage its features is crucial for any user. For more information no how you can secure your iPhone and other devices using services like [Online Security](https://www.reasonlabs.com/platform/products/online-security) visit [ReasonLabs.com](https://www.reasonlabs.com).


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Smartphones have become an integral part of our lives for obvious reasons. Doing everything from managing our financial accounts to simply connecting with family or friends, smartphones enable us to live out our lives in the digital realm. However, with increasing dependence comes an increased risk of cyber threats. Phone hacking has become a substantial concern, and many users are unknowing that their devices could be compromised and there could be a “hack in phone.” In this article, we'll detail how to know if your phone is hacked, what to dial to see if your phone is hacked, describe different signs your phone is hacked, and finally what should you do if your phone is hacked. 

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## What to Dial to See if Your Phone is Hacked

If you presume that have been a victim of phone hacking, there are several codes you can dial to check for signs your phone is hacked. To answer the question, “What to dial to see if your phone is hacked,” consider the following:

1. Dial *#21#: This code reveals whether your calls, messages, and data are being forwarded to another number. If you notice that your information is being redirected without your knowledge, it could be one of the signs your phone is hacked.

2. Dial *#62#: This code shows where your calls, messages, and data are being forwarded when you are currently unreachable. If you see an odd number in the results, it can suggest unauthorized activity.

3. Dial ##002#: This is a code that will reset call forwarding settings, stopping potential eavesdroppers from listening in on your calls.

4. Dial *#06#: This code displays your device’s International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. If your IMEI number has been altered, it could mean that your device has been cloned.

5. Dial *#*#4636#*#*: This opens a testing menu on Android machines so you can view details about its usage. It can help you identify unusual activity that may indicate a hack.

While these codes can provide valuable insights, they are not certain. If you continue to experience issues or suspect that your phone is hacked, investigate it further.


## How to Know if Your Phone is Hacked

Identifying whether your phone has been hacked isn't always straightforward, but there are several signs and symptoms to watch out for:

1. **Unusual Battery Drain:** If your phone's battery is depleting faster than usual, it could be due to malicious software running in the background. Hackers often use your phone's resources to carry out their activities, leading to excessive battery consumption.

2. **Increased Data Usage:** A sudden spike in your data usage may indicate that your phone is transmitting information to an external source without your knowledge. This is a common sign of spyware or malware.

3. **Slow Performance:** If your phone starts to lag or slow down, it could be a sign that it's infected with malware. Hackers often use your device to carry out tasks that consume processing power, causing your phone to become sluggish.

4. **Strange Pop-ups and Ads:** Frequent pop-ups and ads, especially those that appear outside of apps or on your home screen, could be a sign of adware or malware.

5. **Unfamiliar Apps:** If you notice apps on your phone that you didn’t download, it’s possible that a hacker installed them to monitor your activity or steal your information.

6. **Unusual Activity on Accounts:** If you notice unauthorized activity on your online accounts, such as password resets, login attempts, or strange messages, it could indicate that your phone has been compromised.

7. **Strange Text Messages or Calls:** Receiving unusual text messages or calls, especially from unknown numbers, could be a sign that your phone is being monitored or that malware is at work.

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## Hack in Phone

A hack in phone takes place when someone gains unauthorized access to your device, often to steal personal information, spy on your activities, or cause harm. This can happen in several ways, including:

1. **Phishing Attacks:** Hackers use deceptive messages, emails, or websites to trick you into providing sensitive information. Once they do, they can gain access to your phone.

2. **Malware:** Malicious software can be installed on your phone through infected apps, email attachments or websites.

3. **SIM Swapping:** Hackers trick your mobile carrier into transferring your phone number to a new SIM card that they control in a SIM swap attack. This enables them to intercept calls, messages, and 2FA authentication codes.

4. **Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks:** Connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks can put your phone at risk to hacking.

5. **Bluetooth Vulnerabilities:** Hackers can exploit exposures in your phone's Bluetooth connection. Always turn off Bluetooth when you're not using it.


## Phone Hacking

Phone hacking is a real threat that can bring on privacy concerns and lead to significant financial or personal harm. Hackers can access your personal information, steal your identity, and even participate in illegal activities. Here are some common phone hacking methods people use to gain access to your phone:

1. **Spyware:** Spyware is designed to spy on your activities without your knowledge. It can track your location, monitor your calls and texts, and document your keystrokes.

2. **Rogue Apps:** Some apps may appear legit but are designed to steal your info. These can be disguised as games or even social media applications.

3. **Social Engineering:** Hackers often use social engineering tactics to manipulate you into revealing sensitive information. This can be achieved by pretending to be a family member, close friend, or someone in an emergency situation. 

4. **Keylogging:** Keylogging software records every keystroke you make, allowing hackers to capture your sensitive information such as credit card numbers.

5. **Jailbreaking:** Jailbreaking, also known as Rooting, is the process of removing the security protections built into the operating system.


## Signs Your Phone is Hacked

If you are looking for signs your phone is hacked and suspect the worst, you can look out for the following:

1. **Weird Charges:** If you experience or uncover unexplained charges on your bill, it could be a sign that your phone is being used for nefarious activities.

2. **Overheating:** If your phone becomes extremely hot, it could be due to malicious software operating on it. 

3. **Unresponsive:** If your phone frequently crashes, it could be hacked.

4. **Messages You Don’t Remember:** If you notice texts that you didn't send, it could mean your phone is hacked.

5. **Unusual Account Activities:** If you are notified of account activity that you didn’t initiate, it could be a sign that your phone has been hacked.

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## What Should You Do If Your Phone is Hacked

So, what should you do if your phone is hacked? Well, if you suppose that your phone is or has been hacked, it's critical to take prompt action. This will result in better protection of your data and secure your phone. Here's what you should do:

1. **Disconnect from the Internet:** Turn off your phone’s Wi-Fi and its mobile data to prevent hackers from using your phone remotely.

2. **Use Online Security For Identity Theft Protection:** The [Online Security](https://www.reasonlabs.com/platform/products/online-security) platform from ReasonLabs can help protect your identity and secure the most important data you have.

2. **Switch Up Passwords:** Change the passwords for all your accounts, especially the ones you have linked to your phone. Use strong and unique passwords wherever possible.

3. **Update Your OS:** Make sure you are regularly updating your phone's operating system. Software updates will often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.

4. **Perform A Factory Reset:** Consider performing a factory reset. This will erase all data on your device so make sure to back up any and all important data beforehand.

5. **Reach Out To Your Mobile Carrier:** Let them know about your current situation. They can help secure your account and potentially block any unauthorized use of your phone.


## Conclusion

Phone hacking is a growing threat, so stay vigilant and take proactive steps. Regularly checking your phone, using security codes, and being aware of potential threats can help you stay ahead of hackers. If you suspect that your phone has been compromised, act quickly to secure your device and minimize damage. Remember, your smartphone is a gateway to your digital life—protect it as you would any other valuable asset. For more information, visit [ReasonLabs.com](https://www.reasonlabs.com). 

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