Tech Tag: Lifestyle

When you attempt to enable AirDrop in the Finder sidebar, but the checkmark disappears immediately, it means Finder is unable to save your preference. This is typically a minor glitch. You can try the following solution:

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Force Quit Finder

• Click the Apple Menu in the top-left corner of your screen.
• Select Force Quit from the dropdown menu.
• In the Force Quit Applications window, select Finder.
• Click the Relaunch button.

2. Re-attempt Adding AirDrop

• Open Finder.
• Go to Finder > Settings (or Preferences).
• Under the Sidebar tab, try checking the AirDrop option again.

Additional Tips

• If relaunching Finder does not resolve the issue, try restarting your Mac. Sometimes system processes need a full reset to clear glitches.
• Ensure your macOS is updated to the latest version, as updates often provide bug fixes and stability improvements.
• If the problem persists, consider resetting Finder’s preferences by deleting the com.apple.finder.plist file in your user Library. Be cautious—this resets Finder settings to default:
  • Open Finder, then from the menu select Go > Go to Folder.
  • Type ~/Library/Preferences/ and press Return.
  • Find com.apple.finder.plist, move it to Trash.
  • Restart Finder or your Mac.

Why This Happens

This behavior often occurs due to minor Finder glitches or corrupted preference files, which prevent new sidebar preferences from sticking when you make changes.

By force-quitting Finder, you reset its processes and give it a chance to properly save your sidebar settings the next time you try. If further action is needed, resetting preferences can clear underlying issues.

Recent versions of ChatGPT, especially the o3 and o4-mini models, often insert invisible Unicode characters—such as zero-width spaces (U+200B), narrow no-break spaces (U+202F), and others—into their replies. These characters are not visible in standard text editors or word processors, but they can be detected and removed using several methods.

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Signal, the popular encrypted messaging app, has introduced usernames, a groundbreaking feature that enhances privacy by allowing users to connect without sharing their phone numbers. This update is a game-changer for those who value anonymity and control over their personal information. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Are Signal Usernames?

Usernames are unique identifiers that let you communicate on Signal without revealing your phone number. Instead of sharing your contact details, you can now share a username (e.g., “@YourUsername”), offering a more private way to connect.

Why Do Usernames Matter?

1. Enhanced Privacy: Keep your phone number hidden when connecting with others.
2. Anonymity: Ideal for journalists, activists, or anyone needing discretion.
3. Control: You can change your username anytime and decide who gets access to it.
4. Secure Communication: Signal’s end-to-end encryption ensures conversations remain private.

Do You Still Need a Phone Number for Signal?

Yes, Signal still requires a phone number to sign up and verify your account. However, once registered, usernames allow you to keep your phone number private during interactions. This strikes a balance between initial account setup and ongoing privacy.

How to Set Up Your Username

1. Open the Signal app and go to settings.
2. Tap on the “Username” option.
3. Create a unique username and save it.
4. Share your username instead of your phone number when connecting with others.

Pros and Cons of Using Usernames

Pros

• Protects your phone number from being shared unnecessarily.
• Offers flexibility—you can change usernames anytime.
• Easier to connect in online communities or professional settings.

Cons

• You still need a phone number for initial registration.
• If someone guesses or finds your username, they can contact you (blocking is available).

How to Maximize Privacy With Usernames

1. Use a non-identifiable username for added anonymity.
2. Avoid sharing your phone number unless absolutely necessary.
3. Regularly review Signal’s privacy settings.

Final Thoughts: A Step Toward Better Privacy

Signal’s introduction of usernames is a major leap forward in protecting user privacy, allowing you to communicate securely without exposing personal details like your phone number. While registration still requires a phone number, usernames provide an additional layer of anonymity and control once you’re set up.

Have You Ever Felt This Way Using iOS or MacOS?

• “Ads keep popping up everywhere when I browse the web…”
• “I care about privacy, but which browser is truly safe?”
• “Slow page loads are so frustrating!”

If these sound familiar, you’re not alone. Many users of Apple devices face these issues every day.

Are You Really Satisfied with Your Default Browser?

Most people stick with well-known browsers like Safari or Chrome. But are you truly happy with:

• The overwhelming number of ads and pop-ups?
• Worrying about wasted data and battery drain?
• Not knowing if your privacy is actually protected?

These are common complaints among Apple users.

The Day I Discovered a Surprisingly Smooth Browsing Experience

I, too, used Safari and Chrome for years. But one day, I tried a certain browser—and was honestly shocked by the difference.

• Thanks to a special feature, almost all ads disappeared.
• Pages loaded much faster, and my data usage dropped.
• There were also thoughtful privacy features that gave me real peace of mind.

This experience was so impressive, I had to share it with others.

What Is This Browser? How Do You Use It?

Curious about the identity of this “stress-free browser,” how to install it on iOS or MacOS, and the best tips and tricks for getting the most out of it?

In the next section, I’ll reveal everything in detail.

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iCloud’s Advanced Data Protection (ADP) is one of Apple’s most robust security features. By enabling this feature, data stored in iCloud is end-to-end encrypted, ensuring that it can only be decrypted on the user’s trusted devices. This article explains why you should enable ADP and how to set it up.

Why Enable ADP?

1. Complete Privacy Protection
   With ADP enabled, data stored in iCloud (e.g., photos, notes, messages) becomes inaccessible to third parties, including Apple. This significantly reduces the risk of data breaches or unauthorized access.
2. End-to-End Encryption
   ADP ensures that data is encrypted during transmission and remains encrypted at rest. Only trusted devices can decrypt the data, offering a high level of security.
3. Defense Against Security Threats
   In an era of increasing cyberattacks and data breaches, ADP provides a powerful safeguard for personal information.

How to Enable ADP

Requirements

• Devices with iOS 16.2 or later or macOS 13.1 or later.
• Two-factor authentication enabled for your Apple ID.
• Passcodes or passwords set on all devices.
• At least one recovery method (Recovery Contact or Recovery Key).

Steps to Enable ADP

On iPhone or iPad:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap your name and select “iCloud.”
3. Scroll down and tap “Advanced Data Protection.”
4. Select “Turn On Advanced Data Protection” and follow the on-screen instructions.

On Mac:

1. Open “System Settings” from the Apple menu.
2. Click your name and select “iCloud.”
3. Click “Advanced Data Protection” and enable it by following the prompts.

Important Notes

• Enabling ADP disables web access to iCloud.com by default but allows temporary access if needed.
• If no trusted device is available, a Recovery Key will be required to restore access to your data. Store this key securely.
• ADP is not available in certain regions due to local regulations.

Conclusion

iCloud’s Advanced Data Protection is an essential feature for safeguarding personal information and critical data. If you regularly use iCloud, enabling ADP maximizes your security and privacy, ensuring peace of mind in today’s digital landscape.

1. If the shell is slightly open:

• Use your fingernails to wedge into the gap and twist gently to pop it open.
• If it’s hard to do with your nails, you can use a piece of another pistachio shell as a lever — insert it into the gap and twist.

2. If the shell is completely closed:

• Pistachios with completely closed shells are tricky. Avoid forcing them open with your fingers — it can hurt.
• A small nutcracker or pliers can help crack them safely.
• Alternatively, you can wrap the nut in a kitchen towel and give it a gentle tap with something hard (like the back of a spoon), but be careful not to crush the nut inside.

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The easiest and safest way is definitely using a piece of another shell to twist open the nut. Give it a try.

There are several email services that can serve as alternatives to Gmail. Each has distinct features, so it’s best to choose based on your needs and priorities.

Privacy-Focused Services

• ProtonMail
  • Offers end-to-end encryption.
  • Based in Switzerland, adhering to strict privacy laws.
  • Free plan includes 500MB of storage.
• Tutanota
  • Ad-free with end-to-end encryption.
  • Ideal for users prioritizing privacy.
• Mailfence
  • Supports encryption and digital signatures.
  • Includes integrated calendar and storage.

Business and Multi-Function Services

• Outlook.com
  • Strong integration with Microsoft Office.
  • Robust calendar and task management features.
• Zoho Mail
  • Tailored for business users.
  • Integrates with calendar and cloud storage.
• FastMail
  • Features a fast, customizable interface.
  • Ad-free but only available through paid plans.

Other Options

• Yahoo! Mail
  • Offers 1TB of free storage.
  • Suitable for personal use with customization options.
• iCloud Mail
  • Smooth integration with Apple devices.
  • Provides a secure, ad-free environment.
• Posteo
  • A sustainable email service with environmental focus.
  • Strong privacy and security features.

How to Choose

• For privacy, consider ProtonMail or Tutanota.
• For business use, Outlook.com or Zoho Mail are recommended.
• For personal use with cost-efficiency, Yahoo! Mail or free plans from other services may be suitable.

Below is a list of platforms that can serve as alternatives to YouTube:

Major YouTube Alternative Platforms

1. Dailymotion
   • A video-sharing site originating from France with an interface similar to YouTube.
   • Supports HD videos up to 1080p.
   • Limitations: Videos must be under 60 minutes and file size capped at 4GB.
2. Vimeo
   • A platform tailored for creators and professionals, focusing on high-quality video streaming.
   • Ad-free viewing with support for 4K streaming.
   • Free plans have a weekly upload limit of 500MB, and monetization relies on premium subscriptions.
3. DTube
   • A decentralized platform leveraging blockchain technology.
   • Features minimal censorship and cryptocurrency-based monetization.
   • Challenges include a smaller user base and a more complex interface.
4. BitChute
   • A peer-to-peer video-sharing service emphasizing free speech.
   • Allows diverse content but includes some controversial material.
   • Monetization options include crowdfunding and subscriptions, though it lacks advanced features like HD streaming.
5. TikTok
   • Specializes in short-form videos with robust editing tools, making it ideal for viral content.
   • Not suited for long-form videos.
6. Invidious / NewPipe
   • Open-source tools that act as frontends for YouTube, enabling ad-free playback without relying on Google.
   • These platforms do not host original content but reduce dependence on Google services.

Recommendation: Select a platform based on your goals, such as ad-free viewing, high-quality streaming, or avoiding censorship. Each alternative has unique strengths tailored to different needs.

Using Google services can result in significant data collection, potentially impacting user privacy. Below is an explanation of the types of data Google collects and how it affects privacy.

Data Collected by Google

1. Personal Information: Includes name, phone number, and birth date provided during account creation, used for identification.
2. Search History: Tracks searches on Google and YouTube to understand user interests.
3. Location Data: Collected via Google Maps, Android GPS, and Wi-Fi data to monitor real-time movements.
4. Usage Data: Includes browsing history on Chrome, app usage on Google Play, and Gmail interactions.
5. Device Information: Captures device type, IP address, OS version, and crash reports.
6. Communication Data: Analyzes Gmail content and voice inputs from Google Assistant for targeted ads and service improvements.

Privacy Impacts

• Personalized Ads: User behavior and search history are analyzed to deliver targeted advertisements.
• Service Customization: Data is used for personalized search results, YouTube recommendations, and route suggestions in Google Maps.
• Data Sharing with Third Parties: While anonymized data may be shared with advertisers or partners, personally identifiable information is generally not disclosed.
• Government Requests: Google may provide collected data to government agencies when legally required.

Protecting Your Privacy

To mitigate privacy risks:

• Activity Management: Disable search history or location tracking via Google My Activity settings.
• Data Deletion: Regularly delete activity history or enable automatic deletion after a set period.
• Alternative Services: Use privacy-focused browsers like Firefox or Brave and search engines like DuckDuckGo instead of Google’s services.
• VPN Usage: Employ a VPN to mask your IP address and reduce tracking.

Conclusion: While Google’s services offer convenience, they collect extensive personal data for advertising and service enhancement. Users must weigh the trade-offs between convenience and privacy. Adjusting settings or using alternative tools can help reduce privacy risks.

Below are methods to safeguard your privacy online:

1. Protecting Browsers and Communication
   • Always update your browser to the latest version.
   • Use ad blockers and anti-tracking extensions (e.g., uBlock Origin, Privacy Badger).
   • Access only HTTPS-enabled websites to ensure secure communication.
   • Review cookie settings and delete unnecessary tracking cookies.
2. Strong Authentication and Password Management
   • Create strong, random passwords and avoid reusing them.
   • Use password managers (e.g., LastPass, 1Password) for secure storage.
   • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for an extra layer of security.
3. Securing Software and Devices
   • Install reliable security software to protect against viruses and malware.
   • Regularly update your operating system and applications to fix vulnerabilities.
4. Using VPNs and Encryption
   • Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to hide your IP address and encrypt your data.
   • Ensure messaging apps and cloud services support end-to-end encryption.
5. Reviewing Privacy Settings and Information Sharing
   • Adjust privacy settings on social media and online services to limit exposure.
   • Avoid sharing personal information (e.g., name, address, phone number) unnecessarily.
6. Caution with Public Wi-Fi
   • Always use a VPN when connected to public Wi-Fi. Avoid unencrypted networks.
   • Refrain from performing sensitive tasks like banking on public Wi-Fi.
7. Being Alert to Phishing Scams
   • Do not click on suspicious emails or links; verify the sender’s authenticity.
   • Be cautious when entering personal information or passwords online.

By incorporating these practices into daily routines, you can significantly reduce online privacy risks.