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    Author name: Jenny Nicole

    Guide, How To, WhatsApp

    How to Check & What to Do if Your WhatsApp Account is Hacked

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    It can be pretty scary to think about someone snooping on your WhatsApp without your knowledge. If you’re asking yourself how to know if my WhatsApp is hacked, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover the signs to look out for and share what to do if your WhatsApp account is hacked. Understanding WhatsApp Security Over 2 billion people use WhatsApp for daily communication, making data and privacy security essential. The app provides various ways to keep user messages and chats private.  End-to-end encryption (E2EE) ensures only the sender and receiver read or listen to what is sent. The messages are encoded on the sender’s device and decoded on the recipient’s. This is a measure to stop snooping, and not even WhatsApp has access to the content of those messages.  Two-factor verification is another way to secure your WhatsApp account. This feature requires you to enter a six-digit PIN when registering your phone number with WhatsApp. How to Hack WhatsApp – Understanding the Techniques Used by Hackers Before you can truly protect your WhatsApp account, it’s important to understand how to hack a WhatsApp and the techniques hackers use to break in. Knowing the methods they rely on gives you a better idea of the vulnerabilities you need to safeguard against. Spyware is malicious software that is installed on a user’s device without their knowledge. It snoops on various activities, from browsing habits and keystrokes to personal messages, calls, multimedia, and login credentials. The information is collected and sent to a third party without the user’s approval or consent. Spy software can be installed in different ways. A user can be tricked into downloading WhatsApp spyware applications through phishing emails that contain malicious links. Conversely, the user may download from untrusted sources where WhatsApp hacking tools are disguised as authentic apps.  It’s worth noting that some people might search for ways on how to hack someone’s WhatsApp, unknowingly leading themselves to these dangerous spyware applications. Once installed, the WhatsApp spyware program works silently in the background and collects data through keystroke or screen capture. The collected data is sent to a remote server controlled by the attacker or third party.  Here are some common techniques hackers use when figuring out how to hack into someone’s WhatsApp: i. Phishing Attacks Phishing is a cyber attack technique in which the attacker impersonates a legitimate entity and targets individuals with fraudulent emails, messages, or websites that appear trustworthy. The individuals are tricked into downloading attachments that contain spyware or clicking on malicious links. This leads them to login pages and prompts them to provide personal data.  A phishing attack lures an individual to divulge sensitive information by first gaining trust and then creating a sense of urgency. This information includes usernames, passwords, and financial details, which can then be used for identity theft, snooping personal data, financial fraud, and unauthorized access. WhatsApp users can face phishing attacks in the form of deceptive messages or calls that appear to come from their trusted contacts or official sources. Some of the common scenarios are: ii. Social Engineering Social engineering is an umbrella term for malicious activities involving human interactions. It is a psychological manipulation technique that lures individuals to divulge confidential information or perform actions that compromise security.  On WhatsApp, attackers pose as trusted contacts or legal entities and trick individuals into sharing their login credentials or verification codes. For example, an attacker might disguise as WhatsApp support and request verification codes sent via SMS. Once obtained, the attacker can access and take control of the user’s WhatsApp account. iii. Physical Access Modern cell phones are not just devices but hold almost all a user’s personal information. Physical access by a stranger to a user’s phone poses significant security risks. The stranger can install WhatsApp spyware software and manipulate settings to gain control over the device. Therefore, it becomes easy to access sensitive information, including personal messages, photos, and even financial data. With physical access, the stranger can directly view WhatsApp messages and export chat history. If your WhatsApp is tapped, bad actors can easily access current and future messages, photos, media, and documents. The stranger may even enable cloud backups and sync WhatsApp data to their own devices. iv. Sim Card Swapping SIM card swapping, or SIM hijacking, is a method in which a scammer transfers a victim’s phone number to a new SIM card. First, the scammer gathers as much information about the victim as possible through phishing or social engineering. The scammer next contacts the cellular network as the victim and convinces them to transfer the phone number to a new SIM card.  Once the phone number is transferred, the scammer inserts the new SIM card into their phone. They can install WhatsApp and request a verification code, which is then sent to the hijacked phone number. Once the verification is done, opening the WhatsApp account gives access to messages, calls, contacts, media files, and documents.  v. WhatsApp Web Spying on WhatsApp is also possible by exploiting the web version of the app. To use WhatsApp web, users need to scan a QR code that appears on the web service. Hackers can take a QR code from WhatsApp web and insert it on a malicious page. If the user scans the fake code using WhatsApp, the hacker can get the login information and hack into the account.  Monitor WhatsApp the Right Way with XNSPY Stay compliant while keeping your information secure Discover XNSPY How to Know if My WhatsApp is Hacked – 6 Proven Methods When a user’s WhatsApp gets hacked, there are clear signs to watch for. Here are the things you should keep an eye out for if you think your WhatsApp is linked to another phone: a. Unusual Activity WhatsApp shows notifications for every new message or call that you have not checked. If your WhatsApp is tapped, it will result in unusual activity and possible spying. You need to be wary if you

    How to Monitor Someone’s Android Phone Without Them Knowing
    Android, Android Tracking, Guide, How To

    How to Monitor Someone’s Android Phone Without Them Knowing

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    Cell phones have become a vital part of our everyday lives. But with digital threats on the rise, we’re all at risk, sometimes without even realizing it. That’s why it’s so important to keep an eye on an Android phone to help protect your loved ones. In this guide, we will show you how to track an Android phone without the other person knowing. The Rationale Behind Monitoring an Android Device With digital technology advancing rapidly, the need to monitor a person’s Android phone remotely can arise from various concerns.  This can include concerns such as safety, trust, and security.  Parents may want to protect their children from cyberbullies, sexual predators, inappropriate content, and more. Employers might need to monitor company-issued devices to safeguard sensitive business data.  While monitoring someone’s phone offers peace of mind, it is crucial to balance the actions with ethical considerations, respect privacy, and ensure legality. Below, we’ll look at different ways on how to monitor an Android phone without them knowing. How to Monitor Someone’s Android Phone Without Them Finding Out? Try These 3 Best Ways In this section, we’ll explore 3 effective strategies that can help you keep an eye on an Android device while respecting privacy boundaries. Let’s dive in. 1. How to Monitor Someone’s Android Phone Remotely with XNSPY Trying to monitor someone’s phone without physical access can be tough. But with a monitoring app, it becomes much simpler. Using an app like XNSPY, you can easily track an Android phone without the person knowing. It’s compatible with a wide range of Android devices, and the whole process only takes a few minutes on the target phone. Once installed, the app will work discreetly, gathering phone and app data and transferring it to its remote servers in real-time. With a secured dashboard, you can monitor an Android phone from anywhere. So if you’re looking for how to track an Android phone without the person knowing, XNSPY makes it simple and effective. It’s only natural to want to keep the people you care about safe by checking on their Android devices. Just remember, it’s important to do this respectfully—make sure to get their consent and avoid invading their privacy. To get started with XNSPY, first, subscribe and check your email for the download link. Once you have access to the target Android phone, use the link to download and install the app. The process only takes a few minutes, and once installed, XNSPY runs quietly in the background without being detected. From there, you can monitor the Android phone remotely by logging into your XNSPY control panel on any device. You’ll be able to monitor calls, texts, GPS location, social media activity, and more—all in real-time.  Did You Know? XNSPY is a great fit for all Androids, but it really excels with Samsung! Learn more about why Samsung users love it. 2. How to Monitor an Android Phone Without Them Knowing Using Phone Link Apps You can monitor an Android phone without the person knowing through a desktop. It is possible through a Phone link app if you are using Windows 10 or 11.  If you have Windows 10 or 11, you can use Microsoft’s Phone Link app (formerly called “Your Phone”). This app lets you connect an Android phone to your Windows PC, giving you access to notifications, messages, photos, and even calls right from your computer. However, if you’re looking for a reliable way to how to track someone with Android phone, keep in mind that it doesn’t provide full device monitoring or control as dedicated monitoring software does. Here is how to set up and use the Phone Link App Simplify Your Android Monitoring Upgrade to XNSPY and monitor what matters. Discover More 3. How to Track Someone with an Android Phone Using Cloud Backup Another effective way to monitor someone’s Android phone is through cloud backup. In this method, you can access the data synced or backed up to a cloud service like Google Drive. Just remember, you’ll need access to their cloud account credentials, so it’s essential to get that information legally and with their permission.  Most Android phones automatically back up their data to Google Drive. This includes things like your contacts, SMS messages, call logs, photos and videos, app data, and even your device settings and preferences. Let’s see how to monitor an Android phone for free with Google Backup. Can You Monitor an Android Phone Without Installing Software? No, you cannot monitor an Android phone without installing software.  Most Android phones come with strong security measures like passwords, patterns, and fingerprints to keep them safe. While you might find websites claiming to offer ways to monitor other people’s Android phones, a lot of those services are actually malware. To monitor someone’s Android phone, you’ll need an app like XNSPY. This app runs quietly in the background and lets you view messages, app data, and detailed activity logs. Just remember to always follow privacy rules and legal regulations when doing this. How to Monitor an Android Phone for Free? When trying to figure out how to track Android phone, you are bound to come across ads and links claiming you can monitor an Android phone for free. But be careful—free apps can be risky because of potential security and privacy issues. Many free monitoring apps collect and sell user data to third parties, exposing sensitive information like messages, call logs, and location. The free apps lack strong encryption and make the data vulnerable to cybercriminals.  Most importantly, free apps often contain malware or intrusive ads that can harm the target device. Also, these apps provide limited features and unreliable performance compared to paid and popular monitoring software. Can Someone Monitor My Android Phone Without Me Knowing? Yes, someone can potentially monitor your Android phone without your knowledge. But usually, they would need physical access to your Android device or your account credentials to do it. Hidden spy apps can be installed on your Android phone

    Android

    Track Location with SIM Card: 5 SIM Tracker Apps

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    SIM card tracking uses cellular network data to determine the device’s location. You can pinpoint the device’s location even if the GPS is turned off. When traditional GPS tracking is unavailable or requires a more discreet approach, you can use SIM tracker apps to locate your loved ones. If you’re a parent watching and protecting your children, SIM tracking can be a valuable resource if all else fails. It can also prove handy if their phones are misplaced and GPS isn’t available, which is a common occurrence when phones are stolen. Apart from knowing the location of loved ones, these apps can be mainly used by employers who have employees, permanent or freelancers, who work in the field. They can quickly know where the employee is even if they turn off the location.  SIM tracker apps can be beneficial in several situations. However, it is crucial to use these tools legally and ethically, respect privacy, and adhere to relevant laws. Below, we explore five apps that excel in SIM card location tracking and offer unique features and functionalities. 1. XNSPY XNSPY is a comprehensive monitoring app that stores all the places the SIM card has been. It doesn’t guarantee finding the phone, but it gives you the most updated location and directions to reach it. Compatible with Android and iOS devices, XNSPY uses the SIM’s unique identifiers to triangulate the phone’s position based on the nearest cell towers. This feature is particularly useful when GPS tracking is disabled or the phone is out of Wi-Fi networks. It also provides real-time alerts when the SIM card is at an undefined location or has been ejected from the phone. The app is straightforward to use and doesn’t require extended processes. All you have to do is install it once on the device you want to track, and you can see the location on your phone through the XNSPY dashboard. XNSPY allows you to define locations for the target SIM card, so you get a notification when it crosses an area. This feature ensures that your loved ones are always safe, and you can take proactive measures to protect them. 2. Detectico Detectico is another powerful app that tracks discreet SIM cards. The app is entirely web-based, so it doesn’t require installation on the target device. Instead, it links the SIM card’s data to the online platform, allowing you to track the phone’s location remotely. This app requires only an active signal on the SIM card and allows you to track an unknown number that calls you. It is easy to use; you only have to type the number you want to locate and add a personal message for them. Send the message via Detectico. The app will generate a link and send that link to the target number in the message. You will know where the SIM card is when they open the link. Detectico provides real-time location updates, using the phone’s connection to nearby cell towers to determine its position. The app is particularly popular among employers and parents who need to track the whereabouts of their employees or children. The app also offers geofencing capabilities, sending alerts when the device enters or leaves a predefined area. As the app works on the mechanism of text receiving, the app may not provide accurate data when the phone has weak or no signals. 3. Scannero Scannero offers a user-friendly approach to SIM card tracking, making it accessible even for those with minimal technical knowledge. The app requires only the target phone number to start tracking, eliminating the need for complex installation on the phone you want to track. All you have to do is sign in on the website and enter the number you want to locate. Scannero will send a text message to the number with the link. You will receive the location details of that number within two minutes via email or text message, or you can view the details from the dashboard. Scannero offers strong privacy; you can also use it to detect privacy or data leaks online. It doesn’t reveal your number or identity when you send a link via message. This feature is helpful when you have lost your phone and want to locate it. However, one should be aware that they should not invade the privacy of their employees, children, or other loved ones. Scannero doesn’t require installing the app on the target phone. However, the SIM card should have an active internet connection if you want accurate details. Otherwise, you will be unable to receive the real-time location data. 4. Glympse Glympse is a popular geo-location platform that strongly believes in individuals’ privacy and promotes the idea that location sharing should be temporary. The app’s primary focus is to provide businesses with a solution for location tracking issues. The app uses the phone’s cellular connection to share real-time location data, which can be viewed on any device with internet access. For businesses, the app provides analysis, insights, and predictive visibility to improve services. Additionally, it offers geofencing features, a flexible integration model, API, and SDK, through which the user can configure the app according to their requirements. It is ideal for users who want a simple, non-invasive way to keep track of someone’s location. The app allows users to set time limits for location sharing, ensuring privacy is maintained when tracking is no longer needed. However, due to its focus on voluntary location sharing, the app may not be suitable for all tracking needs. Its reliance on the user’s consent and active participation limits its effectiveness for discreet tracking. Furthermore, if the phone loses its connection to the cellular network, Glympse may be unable to provide accurate location data. 5. MobileSpy MobileSpy is a comprehensive monitoring solution with SIM card tracking features. The app works best for parents and employers who need to monitor the location of their children or employees discreetly. To track location with MobileSpy, you must install the app on the

    Android

    How to Track Phone with IMEI Number? Here Are 6 Tools That Can Help

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    Smartphones are now more than just digital devices. They’re everyday accessories that hold all our personal details and information. It’s no surprise that the last thing you need is not being able to find your phone.  You could have forgotten it at a grocery store, it may have slipped from your pocket, or someone might have pickpocketed it. Whatever the reason, the stress and anxiety that comes overwhelms almost anyone in this situation. However, don’t panic. Even if all your efforts are in vain, you can track a phone with its IMEI number. Let’s explore the process and the 5 apps that can help in this regard. How IMEI Number Helps to Track a Lost Phone All cell phones, whether Android or iPhone, come with a distinctive 15-digit code called the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity). IMEI number is a unique identifier assigned to every mobile device. When a phone is lost or stolen, this number can be used to track it. Network providers and law enforcement use the IMEI to locate the device on a cellular network, even if the SIM card has been changed. Reporting IMEI to the network provider blacklists the phone, which means the phone cannot be connected to any network. This step makes the phone useless if it’s stolen. Here is how you can know the IMEI of your phone: Open Settings> About Phone or General > IMEI The above methods help you find the IMEI number. However, if your phone is lost, you cannot retrieve it, so it is necessary to note it down and save it. The 6 Best IMEI Tracker Tools In addition to network providers, tracking apps use the IMEI to help owners recover lost phones by pinpointing their location. Here are the 6 IMEI tracker apps that can help locate your phone #1. XNSPY XNSPY is a phone monitoring app that can help track a phone even if you lost or misplaced it. The app is available and supported on most Android and iOS phones. XNSPY offers remote multimedia access, location tracking, call and message logs, and social media monitoring. Follow the steps below to use its location-tracking feature. You can access this information remotely and get the coordinates and address where the phone is located, along with date and time stamps. XNSPY helps track the phone on which it is installed without requiring any additional hardware. The app even lets users lock the phone and delete data by sending remote commands from the dashboard. #2. IMEI Tracker – Find My Device IMEI Tracker—Find My Device is a mobile app that helps locate lost or stolen cell phones. To use it, you need to install it on another phone. After installing the app, enter the phone’s IMEI number. This tracker app connects with global databases to track the phone’s location. You can even use the app to lock the phone. However, the phone needs to be switched with an active connection to the internet. #3. IMEI.info IMEI.info is an online tool that helps locate lost phones. It allows users to check their device’s IMEI number. After entering the IMEI on the website, users can access detailed information about their phone’s make and model, including its current status and if it’s been reported as lost or stolen. IMEI.info does not directly track the phone’s location. However, it is a free service that helps identify and blacklist devices. This makes the phone harder to resell and increases the chances of recovery. #4. Find My Device by Google Find My Device is an Android app that allows users to find, lock, erase, and play sound on a phone. It is a free app that comes default on most phones, and users can even download it. Find My Device helps locate a lost phone by allowing users to track their Android devices through the Google account linked to their phone. The app displays the device’s real-time location on a map; if unavailable, it shows the last saved location. However, you need to set up the app on the phone before losing it. #5. IMEI Checker IMEI is another free Android app that provides detailed phone information using the IMEI number of the device. The app is easy to use and has positive reviews from most users. You need to install the app and input the IMEI number. The IMEI checker app will provide information such as make, model, and blacklist status. This helps to track lost or stolen devices. The app even provides additional information like network information and system details. However, most devices and phones may not support the app, and the lost phone needs to be connected to the internet. #6. Where’s My Droid Where’s My Droid claims to be the first to find your phone on Android. It now offers modern features to locate lost phones. The Where’s My Droid app allows users to turn up the volume and ring their phones remotely. The app gathers the phone’s GPS coordinates and helps you track it with a link to Google Maps. You can send commands to lock the phone, making it unusable. If you cannot find the phone, you can erase the information with its wipe feature. Verdict Losing a phone is a misfortune that can happen to anyone at any time. However, these 6 tools can help you track and locate the phone. Each tool serves the same purpose, and you can select one based on your preferences. If you are looking for a complete solution without any downsides, then XNSPY is the best option. With its advanced GPS tracking, the app helps track lost phones, giving you real-time updates. XNSPY even offers tools to remotely control the device by locking it and even erasing data if it’s stolen.

    Capture view once images
    Social Media

    Here Are 5 Cheats to Capture View Once Images/Videos on WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Instagram

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    Sharing images and videos has become a daily norm for everyone using social media and communication platforms. Applications like WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Instagram have revolutionized sharing and consuming content in the digital age. From directly sending videos to introducing picture filters directly on apps, these apps use more creative ways to attract new users daily. The “view once” feature (as it’s known on WhatsApp) is one such feature that draws users’ attention. People who use this feature frequently choose the app that offers the most data security. While the feature provides another level of security, it can be frustrating if you need to revisit the content later since, as the name implies, you can only view the content once. Although respecting privacy should be your priority, there are legitimate reasons why someone might want to save these view-once images or videos, such as for evidence or personal reference. This blog will explore five cheats to capture view-once pictures and videos on WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Instagram. What is a View Once Image or Video, and How Do They Work? The view once feature allows individuals to send pictures and videos that recipients can look at just once, after which the image is automatically deleted. This feature enhances privacy, as the media disappears after it has been viewed once. It doesn’t go into your gallery and is not saved in the app storage as it is deleted after it is opened, hindering further access. The view once feature responds to the growing concern over privacy and unauthorized personal media sharing. However, its temporary nature can be frustrating and hinder specific scenarios, leading people to seek ways to bypass it. Each app has different privacy and security levels for its one-view images. However, they can all be bypassed using various methods. Before jumping into cheats, let’s understand what kind of security Instagram, Snapchat, and WhatsApp have. Instagram Instagram’s “View Once” feature lets you send pictures and videos in one view. This feature is available on Instagram Direct Messages, where users can send disappearing photos or videos. You can choose from the options to keep in chat, allow replay, and view once. If you choose the allow replay option, the video is sent privately, but you can replay it once or twice. The “View Once” feature is popular among users who want to share temporary content. This can be behind-the-scenes glimpses, spontaneous moments, or content you don’t want to leave a permanent digital footprint. Snapchat Snapchat pioneered the concept of disappearing messages, making it a core feature of the platform. When sending snaps, users can choose to allow them to be viewed once or for a limited time. After the recipient views the snap, it disappears from the chat. Snapchat’s focus on brief content has made it a favorite among younger users, who appreciate its temporary nature. WhatsApp WhatsApp’s view once feature is the best in terms of security and privacy. You can select the “View Once” option when sending a photo or video, ensuring the media is only visible for a single viewing. It looks like a 1 in a circle. After the recipient opens and views the media, it disappears from the chat, leaving no trace. The option works best for sharing sensitive information, personal photos, or confidential documents. 5 Ways to Capture Veiw Once Image or Videos If someone has sent you a video or image for one watch, it is best that you leave it as is. However, if the data requires more time to analyze or for any other legitimate reason requires revisiting, you can use the five effective methods below: 1. Directly From the App One of the simplest ways to capture “View Once” images or videos is directly from the app. However, this method has varying results in every app. Some apps allow users to take screenshots or screen recordings before the media disappears. Others will notify the recipient of the image. Instagram For Instagram, you can easily take screenshots and record screens using traditional methods. In Android, you can use the three-finger technique and the side menu option for screen recording. For an iPhone, use the up button and starting button. The app doesn’t send the sender notifications, which is much easier. However, you must be quick while taking a screenshot, as the media disappears after a few seconds. Snapchat Snapchat sends a notification directly whenever you take a screenshot. However, it doesn’t send a notification when you record the screen. So, if you want to keep a record of the image, start recording the screen and then open the picture. You can save the image. WhatsApp WhatsApp doesn’t allow users to take screenshots or record screens. If you try taking a screenshot of the one-watch image or video, the picture or recording will be entirely black while the media is open. This level of privacy makes it the best option for sending sensitive media. However, there are other ways to achieve this goal.  2. Using Phone Mirror Software – XNSPY XNSPY is a monitoring app that allows you to mirror a phone. Parents use this app to oversee their children’s online activity, employers to monitor their employees, and older adults to care for their elderly parents. You can use the app’s features if you want to see a once-view image your child or your employee has received. XNSPY has specific features that allow screenshots and screen recording. To use them, you must install the app on the target phone and mirror it on your device. Let’s learn more. Messages Tracking XNSPY offers robust WhatsApp tracking capabilities, allowing you to read messages, view multimedia files, and capture “View Once” images and videos through its screenshot and screen record feature. To view these screen recordings, navigate to the ‘Screen Record’ page and select WhatsApp from the list. Social Media Tracking In addition to WhatsApp, XNSPY extends its monitoring capabilities to other popular social media platforms, including Instagram and Snapchat. With social media tracking, you can monitor

    Child Monitoring

    Real-Life Stories: How XNSPY Helped Parents Ensure Their Children’s Safety

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    In an advanced digital age, every parent is concerned about their children’s online safety. More than a dozen monitoring apps boast about balancing digital freedom and safety. However, many fall short of these tall claims. XNSPY is one of the few apps that has gained parents’ trust worldwide due to its diverse features. Here are 3 real-life stories of how the app is built to help parents in different situations. Story 1: ‘’A Concerned Parent’’ I run a small bakery in my neighborhood and have my hands full almost every day. I have a daughter, Emma, who just turned 13 in May this year. Let me tell you, I knew running a full-time business and being a single parent would be hard – but nobody told me it was going to be this hard. I have to constantly juggle between being a concerned parent and a full-time business owner. I got Emma a phone last year, nothing special – just something she could use to stay connected. I did not realize how quickly things could get out of hand. The trouble was I had to keep an eye on her online activities without being overly intrusive because I wanted her to learn how to be independent. But after a couple of predators messaged her, I knew I had to step in. After researching my options, I found Xnspy, which had the most positive reviews from parents and made it easier to make a decision. It was easy to get and install the app on Emma’s cell phone. The dashboard can be accessed remotely, which made it easier to keep tabs on her while working in the bakery. With Xnspy, I can easily monitor Emma’s activity on different social media platforms, call logs, and text messages. Besides showing the entire chat, the app’s screen recording collects visual data from over 10 apps, including Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat. Just a week ago, a stranger tried to prey on Emma and coerce her into sharing her personal details and photos. Thanks to Xnspy’s real-time notifications, I learned of the unusual activity and blocked the stranger before any harm was done. I find the app’s other features also quite useful, such as keylogging, multimedia access, and internet history monitoring. Story 2: ‘’Best Child Monitoring Tool’’ My wife is Susan and I have a hectic daily routine and often arrive late from work. We have two kids: a daughter, Megan, who is 18, and a son, Stuart, who is 14. While Megan has always been a straight-A student, Stu hasn’t been so lucky. Stuart like other teenagers, spent most of his time after school with friends. However, we both suspected he was mixing with the wrong group of friends. In the parents’ meeting three months ago, Susan was told that Stuart was skipping some classes and was also caught bullying kids of other grades. We were both floored since we’d never thought he’d do something like this. We discussed the incidents with Stuart, but he was pretty reserved and did not give straight answers, as teens do. Susan and I knew we had to get to the bottom of his behavior, and our answers lay in his phone. After all, he did spend every waking hour of his life on it. One of my friends at work suggested using XNspy, which did wonders for keeping tabs on their kids. We did use parental control options available for most phones and apps. However, we were surprised by the features that XNspy offers to parents. It was kind of a relief to know we would get some clue or answer to Stuart’s rebellious behavior of late. And, boy, XNspy did not disappoint us. Its call and surround recording tools, in particular, helped us know the type of discussion Stuart has with his friends. The location tracking provided accurate details of where he went with a complete history of visited places. The clues XNspy gave us helped us talk with Stuart from a better perspective and gave us insight into some of his troubles. It’s a process, but we’re getting better at it every day. Story 3: ‘’Curb Kid’s Digital Activity’’ My son Jake is 10 years old and is super glued to smartphones and tablets, a habit that annoyed my husband and me. Being in an advertising company, I know how the kind of crap that can get fed to young impressionable kids on the internet. Jake is, what you say a good student and gets better grades than most in his class. However, recently, teachers said that his grades are all falling in most subjects. He also did not make it to the soccer team, a sport he has loved since he was a child! It all got me and my husband quite worried, and we discussed the reasons and possible solutions. We wanted a way to ensure Jake was not spending too much time on a smartphone and online. Searching for parental control apps, I discovered Xnspy, which offered features that seemed ideal for our needs. I’ll be the first to admit, I was skeptical as HELL.  But installing the app on Jake’s phone was not a hassle, which I first imagined would be. The remote dashboard allowed me to monitor almost anything from calls, messages, social media, locations, and multimedia. With a busy routine, my husband and I wanted an option that could give us a holistic view of Jake’s mobile use. The screentime management of Xnspy fit the bill the best. This option showed us patterns in smartphone activity and made adjustments so that Jake could develop healthier digital habits. The app also helped us prevent Jake from opening inappropriate websites. I was surprised at the kinds of sites he was visiting – I thought I’d done a good job at teaching him to avoid that kind of stuff but, as it turns out, kids with unrestricted access to the internet don’t really care about what you teach them. Xnspy’s been a

    Social Media

    How to Block Porn on X (Twitter): A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents

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    The ease with which children can access adult content and explicit material online is alarming for parents. While most social media platforms enforce strict policies to protect children and early teens, a few come with less intricate and easily breachable systems. Recently, X, formerly known as Twitter, officially permitted users to post, view, and share adult nudity and sexual content under new policies. This change means that 7% of X’s global audience aged 13 to 17 can be exposed to such material. However, this reported 7% may be significantly underestimated as users can easily lie about their age when signing up, leading to a higher potential exposure among underage users. If you have a child at home who regularly uses social media, you can be sure that they are exposed to adult material. This guide offers step-by-step instructions to help parents like you shield their children from inappropriate content on X. What is X Porn, and Why Does The Platform Allow it? X is well-known for its controversies, particularly as one of the major social media platforms that permit explicit content—often referred to as “X porn.” This material is reminiscent of OnlyFans, a subscription-based platform that allows sex workers to paywall their material. However, on X, most pornographic material is much easier to access since there is no subscription/payment required. The social media network primarily allows explicit content due to its commitment to freedom of speech. The platform believes in letting users share whatever they desire without imposing strict restrictions on inappropriate content. However, it should be noted that users must mark such content as sensitive when posting. This requirement doesn’t stop the kids from viewing such content. While X does have age restrictions intended to prevent minors from accessing explicit content, these measures are easily circumvented. Children can falsify their age or use someone else’s account during creation. The platform’s moderation has also seen a noticeable decline, with highly explicit material available to users on their main timelines. Due to these factors and the ease with which restrictions can be bypassed, X poses a significant risk to children. Is It Easy to Find Porn on X (Twitter)? Yes, it is relatively easy to find pornographic content on X (formerly Twitter). The platform’s lenient content policies and emphasis on free speech allow the unrestricted distribution of adult content. Children can use specific hashtags to locate explicit material, which includes user-generated content, as people can post a wide range of media. When X users share adult content, it is rapidly disseminated across the platform. By default, X does not block adult content from appearing in search results or timelines unless users precisely adjust their media settings to filter out sensitive content. If your child finds an explicit clip or picture, they can easily share it. X’s ‘For You’ tab also curates content based on user interests. This tab aggregates posts from across the platform, and without stringent content moderation, it can expose users to inappropriate material. If your child has interacted with explicit content, the algorithm will save this behavior and continue to show similar content, increasing the likelihood of exposure. Preventing Kids to Watch Porn on X (Twitter): Step By Step Guide for Parents Although the government and various organizations are taking measures to protect children from the drastic impacts of increasing pornographic content online, parents, too, need to take action. You must understand how adult content can harm your kids and how you can protect them. Keeping your children safe from explicit content on X requires a strategic approach. Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you manage and restrict your child’s exposure to inappropriate material on the platform. Step 1: Understanding the Effects To properly protect your children from the debilitating effects of exposure to porn on X, you must first understand the associated risks. Being exposed to such content is not just ethically questionable; it has severe consequences on your child’s mental health. UNICEF, explicitly lays out in its report  Protection of children from the harmful impacts of pornography: “Exposure to pornography at a young age may lead to poor mental health, sexism and objectification, sexual violence, and other negative outcomes.” The international body, known for protecting children has started campaigns to prevent exposure to adult content, including mass media campaigns for parents, carers, teachers, and other professionals working with children. It goes without saying that exposure to pornographic material can have various negative impacts on children, including distorted perceptions of sexuality, increased anxiety, and inappropriate behavior. Recognizing these risks emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to shield your child from such content. Though it may seem daunting and cannot be controlled, you don’t need to worry because there are various ways to safeguard your children from inappropriate content on X. Step 2: Using X (Twitter) Privacy Settings X offers several privacy settings that can help limit your child’s exposure to explicit content. These setting restrict their access to such content to some extent. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use these features: Privacy Settings Filtering Content Option By meticulously configuring these settings, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of your child encountering explicit content on X. Step 3: Reporting Inappropriate Content As mentioned above, Twitter might not filter the content by default; however, you can report inappropriate content you do not wish to see again. X’s moderation response is sometimes slightly slow, so it may take a while for them to take action. Still, reporting such content can help the algorithm stop showing similar content. Here’s how to report inappropriate content: While reporting inappropriate content is necessary, it may not be sufficient to protect your child from harmful material. You must implement comprehensive measures and adjust Twitter settings to eliminate the possibility of your child encountering inappropriate content. Step 4: Using Parent Control Applications – XNSPY If you still find porn on X after enabling all protective measures on your phone, you can try effective third-party solutions. While there are many tools out there

    Reddit App for kids
    Social Media

    Is Reddit Safe for Kids? Understanding the Front Page of the Internet

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    Reddit is among the most popular social platforms, with over 73.1 million daily active users and 267.5 million weekly active users. The network’s vast communities, better known as subreddits, offer users a world of information and entertainment. Reddit has a diverse global audience where individuals of every age can interact with each other, share, discuss, and vote on content ranging from news and hobbies to niche interests and memes. The platform boosts 100k subreddits on almost anything from sports, music, and movies to politics, cute animals, and news. Why is Reddit Called the Front Page of the Internet? Reddit is not just a social platform but a diverse and ever-evolving community driven news bulletin where all the latest stories and discussions emerge. It was launched in 2005 and is now home to millions of users and thousands of subreddits, each representing a particular hobby, interest, or topic. Whether it’s about a cute cat or dog video, politics, or any happening event, people flock to Reddit to start a subreddit and post comments. The diversity and ease of posting anything makes Reddit known as the ‘Front page of the Internet. What Sets Apart Reddit from Other Social Media Platforms? Reddit is a social news and discussion website. Users can post content such as text posts, links, and images, which are then voted up or down by other members. The content on Reddit is organized into user-created boards called “subreddits,” each focusing on a specific topic. Examples of popular subreddits are r/news, r/funny, r/movies, r/music, and so on.  Reddit users are called Redditors. They can start a post and even post comments that can be upvoted or downvoted. The more upvotes a comment gets, the more prominent it will appear on the thread. If a particular post or comment violates the community guidelines, the moderators will remove them. Is Reddit Safe for Kids? Reddit is the 10th most visited website in the US, and its active user base reflects a young audience. A recent study shows that 40% of children in the US, Australia, and the UK use Reddit actively. Perhaps the biggest attraction for teens is Reddit’s anonymity. Users rarely use their real names on Reddit, and there is no way to know their age and gender. Once users make an account, they are open to numerous subreddits, posts, and comments. In short, no, Reddit is not safe for kids, given how much risky content they are exposed to. Anonymity and free-acces is a double edged sword. While it affords teens safety and privacy to explore their interests, it also exposes them to graphic, adult content. Reddit has tightened the grip on hateful, graphic content on the site, but it is no stranger to controversy. Here are some reasons why Reddit is unsafe for kids and teens: i. Hate Speech Reddit does claim to ban users from promoting hate or inciting violence against an individual’s race and identity. However, hateful comments and those targeting individuals can be found aplenty on the platform. If the subreddit is small with few members and less moderation, then foul language can pass without checks. Furthermore, Reddit lacks strict rules for non-English communities. ii. No Age Verification Teens can sign up without verifying their age. Like other platforms, Reddit asks users to be 13 years old or above to make an account. However, teens can easily lie about their age. iii. Exposure to Adult Content Reddit is famous for displaying NSFW (Not Safe/ Suitable For Work) for numerous content and subreddits. All the adult and violent images or videos are flagged as NSFW, and the content is blurred from viewing. However, kids can simply click ‘’Yes, I am above 18’’ and view the explicit material at will.  iv. Private Messages and Abusive Comments Users on Reddit can interact with each other via private messages and invites to group chat. Kids can unknowingly come in contact with online predators and cyberbullies who take advantage of Reddit’s nature of staying anonymous. Many users discuss, share, and give opinions on different things, but some abuse, troll, and cyberbully others. v. Spread of Misinformation The subreddits and content on Reddit are made and moderated entirely by the users. This allows anyone to start a debate, ask questions, or give information. Due to the extent of information, kids can easily come across some that are misleading and false. How Parents Can Ensure Reddit Safety for Their Kids Reddit has the usual settings that users can use to refrain from getting inappropriate content. However, the platform lacks advanced controls that allow parents to view and monitor their teen’s activities. You can adjust the setting to prevent a stranger from interacting with your kid. But for that, you have to log in to your child’s Reddit account.  Also, there is always a chance the kid can reverse the changes you make in the settings. Apart from the dangers that are common in other social networks too, Reddit can be a place where your teen can learn, explore their passion, and connect with like-minded individuals. If your teen is already using Reddit or plans to, here are the tips for you to follow 1. Observe Reddit and Talk with the Teen Before talking with your child, it is better to make an account and use Reddit on your own. You will get familiar with how the platform works and how users interact with subreddits. This activity will let you know about the risks and how to address them to your teen. If the child is already using Reddit, you can observe their activity and the posts they make. Discuss the things you find awkward and inappropriate for the kids. Tell the teen to be polite, recognize suspicious behavior, and avoid sharing information or posting that reveals their identity or location. 2. Ask Teen to Enable Reddit Safety Features It is better for parents to allow their teens to use Reddit if they are 16 or above. Parents must also set the privacy settings

    Social Media

    Social Media Needs Warning Labels’ 5 Key Takeaways from Surgeon General’s Op-ed

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    In a vulnerable digital society, it’s high time for each stakeholder to ensure the online security of our future generation. The US Surgeon General has been pretty vocal since last year, stressing the growing impact of social media on the mental health of the youth. He said on CNN’s Newsroom, ‘’I, personally, based on the data I’ve seen, believe that 13 is too early to join social media platforms.’’ The proposed warning label will appear once the user logs in and remind them that excessive social media use can risk mental health. Warning labels are not new and are widely used for other negative elements of society, like cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs. The US General Surgeon expressed that these labels will increase awareness of social media risks and prompt a behavioral change. On the other hand, medical professionals continue to underline the harmful effects of social media on the minds of adolescents. An official advisory was even issued by the US General Surgeon together with the Department of Health and Human Services. In the recent column by the nation’s top doctor, one can easily feel the weight of the emotions that his words carried. The words were directed toward all the parents out there who seem to struggle with modern parenting. The more digital advancements we see ever so often, the more our children’s lives are going to be entangled with cell phones and social media. Let us summarise the major talking points for you 5 Key Takeaways from Surgeon General’s Op-ed The most critical aspect we face today is that digital dependency is not going away anytime soon, nor will the Gen Z kids abandon it for good. However, the proactive approach of parents as guardians can bring semblance to what is a dynamic but rather risky digital landscape for the kids. Here are the 5 key points from the op-ed. 1. Screen time among kids has increased exponentially Teenagers are growing up almost integrated with technology, and it’s no surprise for anyone how much time kids spend on a digital screen. More than 95% of teenagers between 13 and 17 years old use a social media app, with more than a third using it excessively. Compared to adults, children seem to have more time to remain active on the internet and social media for long hours. 2. Legislation on the risky online content the kids are exposed to The introduction of artificial intelligence has transformed the dynamics of digital technology. Now, social media apps use advanced algorithms to deliver more user-centric results. However, these algorithms expose teens and tweens to misleading ads, adult content, and online abuse. The advisory recommends that social apps introduce age-appropriate safety standards and share reports on how the platform impacts users’ health.  3. Social media companies should be questioned Tech and social media networks earn billions in revenue and continue to launch fancy features. However, they rarely share information on how social media exposure impacts users, whether adults or teens. Most social networks claim they have robust security and privacy settings in place, but people are asking for proof. Apps like Snapchat and TikTok allow parents to oversee their kids’ activities. However, kids can easily disable the ‘Family Centers’ without their parent’s knowledge or approval. 4. The minds of children are vulnerable to social media Social media is addictive for teens, and most of them constantly scroll their timelines, post their statuses, upload pictures, and make comments. However, excessive use can cause them to venture into risk-taking activities. This includes sharing adult content and bullying. Moreover, adolescence is a tender age when the minds of the youth are still developing. Factors such as bullying, exploitation, FOMO (fear of missing out), and peer pressure can cause all kinds of mental health issues.  Research says children who spend more than 3 hours on social media increase the risk of anxiety and depression. 5. Parents need robust ways to manage their children’s screen time Digital technology is advancing rapidly, and with hectic routines, parents often don’t have time to figure everything out. Ironically, most kids are more tech-savvy than their parents. This is why these kids easily evade the ordinary parental controls that most parents seem to apply. Screen time monitoring of kids is necessary not only at home but everywhere. Parents need a robust monitoring app to gather screen time data and insights into how kids interact on social media and what searches they make on the internet. The US Surgeon General’s Tips for Parents Kids are using social media way earlier before they can grasp the intricacies of the digital medium. More than 40% of kids aged 8 to 12 are active on social media platforms. The surgeon general stressed that the pressure parents have in battling this excessive use is very much real and concerning. Cell phones are necessary for communicating with the kids, whether they are at a friend’s house, at sports practices, or at summer camp. However, it’s hard to know what games they play, who they interact with, and what searches they make. The remedies are present but hard to implement, particularly when the kids become teenagers. Here are valuable tips for the parents i. Develop a family usage plan Two-thirds of parents say parenting is way harder than it was twenty years ago. This is the reason why the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents develop a family media plan. The major points should be screen/online time, content boundaries, and avoiding sharing personal information. Search the ratings and age-suitability of apps and programs before allowing them to the kids. Include a list of consequences for those who do not follow the rules, and ask kids when deciding the consequences. Review the plan after 6 months. ii. Model a responsible behavior Young children try to mimic their parents in various aspects, including online behavior. Besides limiting your own use, you must teach kids how to use social media responsibly. Tell them how to post inspiring information, learn

    VPN for bypassing restrictions: Parental guide
    Parenting Tips - New

    Teens Use VPN to Bypass Parental Controls: What Parents Need to Do

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    Today’s kids are more tech-savvy than their parents. For instance, some teenagers might use a VPN to access social media platforms blocked by their school’s network. Others might use it to download games or movies unavailable in their country. More than 70% of teens hide their online activity from their parents. This desire to assert their independence and explore the digital world on their own often leads to them finding novel ways to bypass restrictions. Most want to keep their social lives, either physical or online, under wraps. This behavior is often accompanied by hiding their internet history. Today, teens have several options to keep their online activity private. These include using the web browser in incognito mode, proxy websites, and a VPN connection. In this guide, we will focus on VPNs and how kids use them to get around parental controls. We’ll also discuss how you can monitor and manage your child’s online activities even if they use a VPN.  What is a VPN? A virtual Private Network (VPN) is a service that forms an encrypted and secure connection between the user’s device and the Internet. VPN masks the IP address and makes the user’s online activity almost untraceable. It is like a server in the middle; before the data travels to a particular website or app, it passes through the VPN, which removes traces of the digital footprint. Almost 1.5 billion people in the world use VPNs, and most do it for legitimate reasons. However, techie kids also use them to circumvent parental restrictions and bypass content filters. Your kid can use a VPN to hide what they search for online and who they talk to, and they can use restricted websites. One common reason for using a VPN is to access ‘geo-restricted content, ‘which refers to online content that is only available to users in certain geographic locations. For example, a teen might use a VPN to watch a TV show only available in another country. The Potential Risks of Using a VPN A VPN offers benefits such as enhanced privacy and access to geo-restricted content. However, excessive use can open the door for potential risks that are ●      Malware and Viruses Your child may install a free or unverified VPN to watch or download restricted content. Installing these VPNs can lead to malware infections and viruses that compromise the device’s data. Over the past decade, malware infections have increased by 87%. ●      Inappropriate Content The Internet is filled with websites that host unsuitable content for children. With a VPN in place, kids can hide their activity and evade parental controls to access restricted websites. For example, a teen might use a VPN to access a website that hosts adult content, which would otherwise be blocked by parental controls. ●      Privacy Leak Trusted VPN service providers assure privacy and anonymity. However, many free VPN services can compromise the user’s data. They might store private information and monetize it by selling the data. The leak of sensitive data threatens not only the kids but also their parents and family. For example, a free VPN app might collect information about the websites a user visits and sell this information to advertisers, who can then use it to target the user with personalized ads. ●      Cyber Predators VPNs provide cyber predators with the ideal cover to remain anonymous and prey on children’s immaturity. These predators stalk websites, social media networks, open forums, and gaming platforms. They often entice children to share private information and take part in other risky online activities. A predator might use a VPN to hide their IP address and location while communicating with a child on a social media platform, making it more difficult for law enforcement to track them down. How does Parental Control Work? Parental control software tools allow parents to manage and restrict their children’s tech usage. These controls are available on smartphones, tablets, web browsers, and social media apps. Almost 75% of parents use parental controls to restrict their child’s screen time. You can apply these controls to Your settings will filter and control the internet traffic and app usage. The controls often rely on the device’s IP address and ISP (Internet Service Providers) to implement the restrictions. Can VPN bypass the Parental Controls You Apply? Yes, a VPN connection bypasses the parental restrictions you apply for. A VPN reroutes all the online information through a remote server before it gets to the ISP. This means no one can view the online activity, whether the ISP or those running the Wi-Fi network. A VPN is a secure bridge through which online traffic can travel without being intercepted or monitored. All the information searched and the URLs the user accesses are encrypted. Furthermore, the VPN hides the device’s IP address and instead shows the IP address of the VPN server. Parental controls primarily block specific IP addresses and prevent kids from accessing those websites. However, a VPN redirects the traffic from a remote server, rendering the IP blocks useless. Here’s why: ●      Encryption and routing The VPN on the user’s device encrypts the internet traffic and redirects it to the remote server. As the data is encrypted, router-level parental restrictions can be bypassed. ●      IP address change The VPN server assigns a new IP address to the user’s internet traffic, making it difficult for the router to identify and apply IP-level blockages. ●      Traffic forwarding The VPN servers forward the traffic to a particular website or app. To the website, it appears that the traffic is coming from the VPN server instead of the user’s device, so even if there is a geo-level restriction on the website, this will be bypassed. The Best Way to Monitor Kids Using a VPN You can use parental controls to restrict the teen’s access to inappropriate websites and content. But as we discussed earlier, the challenge arises when the kid uses a VPN to bypass the screen time and content restriction. You need more than parental

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