smartphone users Archives

AppWizard

December 15, 2024

Windows warns Phone Link won’t show ‘sensitive’ Android 15 notifications

Microsoft's Phone Link application has warned Android smartphone users on the latest Android 15 version that certain "sensitive" notifications, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) codes, will not be displayed on connected PCs due to a new privacy feature in Android 15. This feature restricts third-party applications from accessing sensitive notifications. Users with Samsung devices running One UI 6.1.1 can still view these notifications if the device has requested a "Companion Device Role," but this does not apply to other Android models like Google Pixel or Nothing Phones. A suggested workaround involves disabling the “Enhanced Notifications” option in Android 15’s settings, but this may expose users to risks from malicious applications.

AppWizard

December 7, 2024

FBI warns users to encrypt text messages for cybersecurity. Here’s how to do it

The FBI has advised smartphone users to encrypt text messages, especially when communicating between Apple and Android devices, due to a cyber espionage campaign linked to hackers from the People's Republic of China. These hackers have targeted telecommunications infrastructure and stolen sensitive customer call records. Standard text messages between Apple and Android devices lack encryption, while messages between two devices of the same platform are secure. Users are encouraged to use secure messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal, which provide end-to-end encryption. To use WhatsApp, users must download the app, accept terms, verify their phone number, and set up their profile. For Signal, users follow a similar process of downloading the app, verifying their phone number, creating a PIN, and setting up their profile. Both apps require Wi-Fi or cellular data for operation.

Winsage

December 4, 2024

Samsung is discontinuing its DeX app for Windows PCs

In 2017, Samsung launched DeX, enabling high-end Galaxy smartphone users to create desktop-like environments via a dock. By 2019, the need for a physical dock was removed, and in 2020, wireless DeX was introduced through a DeX app on Windows. With the upcoming One UI 7, support for the DeX app on Windows will end, and users will be directed to use Microsoft’s Phone Link app for mobile-PC connectivity. One UI 7 is rumored to enter beta testing in mid-December, with a broader rollout expected in early 2025. The UK Samsung DeX page states that support for DeX on Windows OS will cease with One UI 7, while the US page does not currently reflect this change. Although DeX will still be available, its access through Windows PCs will stop, with similar functionalities offered through Phone Link, which allows synchronization of notifications and text messages and operation of mobile apps on Windows 11.

AppWizard

November 29, 2024

These 3 Android Apps Are Secretly Stealing Your Personal Data

Spyware apps are increasingly prevalent and can be easily accessed, even if removed from mainstream app stores. These applications can be installed manually on Android devices via APK files and are often placed on phones by individuals with physical access. Once installed, spyware can track location, log calls, monitor text messages, access photos, and gather data from messaging platforms without the owner's knowledge. Recent investigations revealed that several spyware apps, including TheTruthSpy, Copy9, and MxSpy, were involved in a significant data breach, exposing vast amounts of personal data stored on easily accessible servers. Victims of this breach often had no way of knowing their data was being collected. Signs of spyware presence on a smartphone include a sudden decline in battery life and unfamiliar apps in the app manager. Users can also check for spyware using a search tool developed by TechCrunch by entering their phone's IMEI number or advertising ID. The rise of spyware apps poses a growing threat as smartphones are integral to daily life, highlighting the need for better regulations and security measures.

AppWizard

November 27, 2024

Smartphone users warned to delete 15 dangerous, ‘predatory’ apps: ‘A…

McAfee has identified 15 "predatory loan apps" on the Android platform that pose significant risks, having been downloaded over 8 million times globally. These apps exploit users through deceptive practices, often leading to financial distress. Users are advised to uninstall these applications, research apps before downloading, monitor app permissions, stay informed about cybersecurity news, and utilize security software for protection.

AppWizard

November 25, 2024

Android to get protection from suspicious Apps

The Google Play digital store is enhancing its defenses against harmful applications with a new algorithm that scrutinizes apps before downloads. This system will alert users about apps with few ratings, negative reviews, or low usage rates. Additionally, warnings will be issued if a developer's information is obscured or if an app requests excessive user data. These features aim to improve user awareness and safety. Furthermore, the Android operating system has introduced a seamless data transfer feature that allows users to set up new devices without re-entering passwords for various applications and services.

AppWizard

November 19, 2024

Use of mobile messaging apps in Brazil 2023

From 2018 to 2023, the penetration rates of mobile messaging apps among smartphone users in Brazil changed as follows: - WhatsApp increased from 80% to 95%. - Telegram rose from 15% to 40%. - Facebook Messenger stabilized around 50%. - Signal grew from 5% to 15%. These changes reflect a shift towards secure messaging platforms and increased user awareness of privacy issues.