Mobile How to - read breaking and trending Mobile news, stories, headlines. Business insider India is providing latest, handpicked stories related to the How to category.

Mobile How to - read latest and trending Mobile news and headlines

In today's digital age, smartphones have become an extension of ourselves, storing a wealth of personal and sensitive information. While smartphones offer convenience and connectivity, they are also a prime target for hackers. Knowing whether your phone has been compromised is crucial to protect your data, privacy, and personal security. In this article, we'll explore the signs of a hacked phone and the steps to take if you suspect your phone's security has been breached. <h2>Signs your phone might be hacked</h2>Unexplained Battery Drain: If your phone's battery is draining unusually fast, it may be due to background processes initiated by malware or spyware. Slow Performance: A significant drop in your phone's speed and responsiveness can indicate a hacking attempt. Data Usage Spikes: Unexpected data usage can be a sign of malicious activity, as hackers often transfer data from your phone without your knowledge. Mysterious Apps: Check your installed apps for any unfamiliar or suspicious apps that you didn't download. Some malicious software disguises itself as harmless apps. Unusual Pop-Ups: An increase in pop-up ads, especially when you're not using a browser or a specific app, is a red flag. Overheating: A phone that overheats frequently, even during light usage, might be compromised. Unauthorized Account Access: If you receive notifications about unauthorized access attempts to your accounts, it could indicate a breach. Spam Messages: Sending or receiving spam messages and calls from unknown numbers may suggest that your phone is compromised. Disabled Security Features: If your phone's security features, such as screen lock or antivirus, are disabled without your knowledge, it's a strong indicator of hacking. Unusual Data on Phone Bill: Check your phone bill for unusual charges, such as premium SMS services that you didn't sign up for. <h2>What to do if you suspect your phone is hacked</h2> Disconnect from the Internet: Turn off your phone's Wi-Fi and mobile data to prevent further unauthorized access. Change Passwords: Change your passwords for email, social media, and any sensitive apps immediately. Use strong, unique passwords for each account. Scan for Malware: Install a reputable mobile security app and run a full scan to detect and remove any malicious software. Update Software: Ensure your phone's operating system and all apps are up-to-date. Updates often include security patches. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Enable 2FA on all your important accounts for an extra layer of security. Review App Permissions: Review the permissions granted to your apps and disable any unnecessary access to your phone's features and data. Check for Suspicious Apps: Uninstall any suspicious or unfamiliar apps, especially those not downloaded from official app stores. Factory Reset: If you are unable to resolve the issue or suspect persistent malware, consider performing a factory reset. Back up your data before doing so. Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank accounts, email, and other sensitive accounts for any suspicious activities. Seek Professional Help: If you're unable to resolve the issue or have strong reasons to believe you've been targeted, consult with a cybersecurity expert. <h2>How to protect your phone</h2>To reduce the risk of future hacks, follow these preventative measures: Regular Backups: Back up your phone regularly to protect your data. Use Strong Passwords: Implement complex, unique passwords for your accounts. Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks, and consider using a VPN for added security. Be Wary of Phishing: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from unknown sources. Keep Software Updated: Regularly update your phone's operating system and apps. Install Security Software: Consider installing a reputable mobile security app. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices. By staying vigilant and taking proactive steps to secure your phone, you can minimize the risk of falling victim to hacking and protect your personal information. <meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

Here’s how to know if your phone is hacked

Accidentally deleting text messages on your Android phone can be a distressing experience. Those messages may contain valuable information, cherished memories, or important details. Fortunately, there are several methods you can explore to recover those lost messages. In this article, we will delve into the options available to retrieve your deleted text messages and provide guidance on the best practices for data recovery. Check the Recycle Bin or Trash Folder Some Android phones, such as Samsung Galaxy models, offer a built-in Recycle Bin or Trash folder. This feature temporarily stores deleted messages for a specific period before they are permanently removed. Here's how to check for deleted messages: Open your messaging app. Look for the "Recycle Bin" or "Trash" folder within the app's settings. Explore this folder to see if your deleted messages are recoverable. Checking the Recycle Bin should be your first step, as it is a quick and straightforward way to recover messages. Restore from a Backup If you have enabled automatic backups on your Android phone, you may have the option to restore your deleted messages from a backup. Google provides backup services through the Messages app and Google One. To restore your messages using this method, you'll need to perform a factory reset of your phone and then restore it from a previously saved backup. Be cautious as this process erases all data on your device, so ensure you have a recent backup before proceeding. While this method is effective, it may not always be ideal due to the data loss involved in the factory reset. Use a Third-Party App Several third-party apps are available to help you recover deleted text messages on Android. Notable options include Dr.Fone and PhoneRescue. These apps often come with various features, but some may require a subscription for advanced functionality. It's essential to understand that there's no guarantee of success with these apps, and their effectiveness can vary depending on your specific situation. If you decide to use a third-party app, ensure that it is from a reputable developer and read user reviews to gauge its effectiveness. Contact Your Carrier If all else fails, you can contact your mobile carrier to inquire if they can retrieve your deleted messages. However, this option may not always be available and can be a lengthy process with no guaranteed success. Conclusion: Recovering deleted text messages on your Android device is possible through several methods, as outlined above. The key to successful recovery lies in taking prompt action. The longer you wait to attempt recovery, the less likely it is that you'll be able to retrieve your messages. Moreover, to prevent future data loss, it's advisable to regularly back up your data. Many Android phones offer automatic backup options that can safeguard your valuable information. By implementing these practices and staying informed about recovery methods, you can better navigate the occasionally perilous world of data loss and maintain peace of mind in the face of accidental deletions. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Check the Recycle Bin or Trash Folder" comment="subhead" text="Check the Recycle Bin or Trash Folder"> See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/how-to-recover-deleted-whatsapp-messages/articleshow/73082094.cms">How to recover deleted messages on WhatsApp</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/how-to/how-to-restore-deleted-contacts-on-android/articleshow/73666376.cms">How to restore deleted contacts on Android</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/how-to-track-and-recover-a-lost-smartphone/articleshow/72869246.cms">How to track and recover a lost smartphone</a> </cmsannotation><meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

How to recover deleted text messages on Android

<ul><li>OnePlus has started rolling out Google Assistant powered Ambient Mode.</li><li>The ambient mode will be available for OnePlus 3 and above devices.</li></ul>Chinese smartphone maker OnePlus has partnered with Google to add a new ambient mode feature to its OxygenOS. The new feature is based on Google Assistant’s ambient mode and brings a host of new functionalities to the devices. The ambient mode will be turned on when a OnePlus smartphone is plugged in for charging. In addition to showing notifications while charging, the ambient mode will also show temperature, reminders and allow you to control smart home products such as lights and the thermostat. Users will also be able to access information and suggestions on weather, entertainment, agenda and more. This feature also allows you to turn your phone into a digital photo frame. This feature will be available for OnePlus 3 and above <div type="image" title="OnePlus Ambient Display" msid="74115186" hostid="261"></div>

 How to turn on ambient mode on OnePlus devices Eligible devices <ul><li>OnePlus 3</li><li>OnePlus 3T</li><li>OnePlus 5</li><li>OnePlus 5T</li><li>OnePlus 6</li><li>OnePlus 6T</li><li>OnePlus 7</li><li>OnePlus 7 Pro</li><li>OnePlus 7T</li><li>OnePlus 7T Pro</li></ul>If you have one of the above displays, you can turn on ambient mode by following the below steps: <ul><li>Connect the OnePlus device to a charger.</li><li>Click the notification and follow the instructions that are given.</li></ul>You can also enable this feature manually by following the below steps: <ul><li>On your phone, open the Google app.</li><li>At the bottom, click on the ‘More’ tab.</li><li>Now, click on ‘Settings’ and click on ‘Google Assistant’.</li><li>Now, click on the ‘Assistant’ tab.</li><li>Now, scroll down and in the devices section, tap on your phone.</li><li>Now, enable ‘Ambient Display’ from here.</li></ul>See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/how-to/google-pay-makemytrip-flight-offer-how-to-book-flight-tickets-at-a-discount/articleshow/74114529.cms">Google Pay MakeMyTrip flight offer: How to book flight tickets at a discount</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/exclusive-google-maps-will-tell-you-where-to-buy-burgers-before-showing-you-the-way/articleshow/74111908.cms">Exclusive: Google Maps will tell you where to buy burgers before showing you the way</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/oneplus-is-gearing-up-to-release-its-first-smartphone-of-2020-heres-everything-weve-heard-so-far/articleshow/74046786.cms">OnePlus is gearing up to release its first smartphone of 2020 - here's everything we've heard so far</a> <meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

How to turn on Google Assistant-powered Ambient Mode on OnePlus devices

A phone screen is one of the dirtiest objects that we use every day. It is often said that a smartphone screen is dirtier than a public bathroom. As per a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/phones-are-really-dirty-2017-6?IR=T">study</a>, fecal matter can be found on one out of every six smartphones. If you haven’t already been grossed out after reading the above report, another <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-6447979/Mobile-phones-seven-times-dirtier-TOILET-SEATS-finds-new-study.html">report</a> has revealed that an average mobile is seven dirtier than a toilet seat. Phones with leather cases are 17 times dirtier than the toilet seat. Apart from all this, your phone also has a lot of smudges and oily prints which make it harder to use. In this post, we will explain how to clean your phone and things to avoid while cleaning it. Things to avoid while cleaning your smartphone While you may be tempted to use the below things to clean your phone as it makes the job easier, avoid using them as you end up damaging your phone. <ul><li>Window cleaners </li><li>Dish soap </li><li>Bleach </li><li>Gasoline </li><li>Hydrogen Peroxide </li><li>Rubbing alcohol </li><li>Makeup remover </li><li>Disinfectant wipes </li><li>Compressed air </li><li>Aerosol spray cleaners </li><li>Abrasive powders </li></ul>How to clean your smartphone You will need the following items: <ul><li>Small spray bottle </li><li>Distilled water </li><li>70% isopropyl alcohol </li><li>Lint-free microfiber cloth </li><li>Cotton swab </li></ul>Once you have all the things, you can start cleaning your smartphone. <ul><li>Remember to unplug your phone and take it out of the case. </li><li>Mix a one-to-one ratio of distilled water and 70% isopropyl alcohol in a small spray bottle. </li><li>Now, spray the microfiber cloth with the solution lightly. </li><li>Use the cloth to wipe the phone. </li><li>Use the cotton swab to wipe the ports and the speaker grille. </li><li>Now, let the phone dry completely for at least 15 minutes. </li></ul>Remember that the case you use also needs to be cleaned. How to clean smartphone cases <ul><li>If you are using a silicone case, you can submerge it in a solution of water and dishwashing soap. Then, wash it with clean water and use a microfiber cloth to wipe it. </li><li>If you have a hard-plastic case, use the distilled water and alcohol solution to clean it with a microfiber cloth. </li><li>Leather cases can be cleaned either with disinfectant wipes or using a saddle soap. </li></ul>See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-dirty-is-your-cell-phone-2016-3?IR=T">A microbiologist says there's a really gross reason you should clean your phone every night</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/18-everyday-items-that-are-dirtier-than-your-toilet-seat/articleshow/47390917.cms">18 everyday items that are dirtier than your toilet seat</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/germs-dirty-disease-office-2014-9?IR=T">Scientists Discovered The Most Germ-Infested Item In The Office</a> <meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

Did you know 1 in 6 smartphones has feces on it? — here are ways to clean it

If over-the-air or OTA updates are not arriving quickly on your Pixel device and you don’t like to wait, Google has a solution for you that will help you get faster updates on your device. As per a <a href="https://9to5google.com/2020/02/03/how-to-install-ota-update-google-pixel-repair-tool/">report</a>, you can use the Pixel Repair Tool to manually install or sideload the updates. The Pixel Repair Tool has likely been around for some time and was being used internally by customer support. The Pixel Repair Tool is similar to the Android Flash Tool and uses WebUSB technology to connect your Pixel phone directly to a web app. It’s quite easy to install updates using the Pixel Repair Tool. All you need is a browser that supports WebUSB. You can use the new Microsoft Edge, Chrome or Opera. Apart from this, you will need a Pixel 3 or newer device that is running on Android 10, a USB cable and an internet connection. Before we get started, make sure to backup up your phone’s data just in case something goes wrong. Also, make sure that your device has enough battery. How to use Pixel Repair Tool to update your Pixel phone <ul><li>First, head over to the <a href="https://pixelrepair.withgoogle.com/">Pixel Repair Tool</a> website. </li><li>Now, choose your carrier from the list. </li><li>Then, turn off your phone and hold the volume button and power button for a few seconds. </li><li>Once you see the bootloader screen, use the volume buttons to scroll down. </li><li>When you reach ‘Rescue Mode’, press the power button. </li><li>Now, connect your Pixel phone to the computer and click the ‘Connect Phone’ button. </li><li>A pop-up will ask for your permission to connect – click on your phone and then click on ‘Connect’. </li><li>If there is an update available, you will see the text ‘Update Recommended’. </li><li>Click on ‘Update Phone’ and then click on ‘Confirm’. </li><li>After a few minutes, the update will automatically be installed on your device. </li></ul>You can check if the device was updated successfully by going to the settings app: <ul><li>Click on ‘Settings’. </li><li>Now, tap on ‘About Phone’ and then select ‘Android Version’. </li><li>The Android Security Patch will show you the version you are currently on. </li></ul>See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/google-is-expected-to-launch-a-cheaper-version-of-its-pixel-4-smartphone-this-year-heres-everything-we-know-about-it-so-far/articleshow/73440587.cms">Google is expected to launch a cheaper version of its Pixel 4 smartphone this year - here's everything we know about it so far</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/googles-latest-pixel-update-automatically-silences-unknown-numbers-in-a-push-to-end-robocalls-once-and-for-all/articleshow/72448264.cms">Google's latest Pixel update automatically silences unknown numbers in a push to end robocalls once and for all</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/slideshows/miscellaneous/these-normal-everyday-photos-i-took-with-the-pixel-4-show-what-one-of-the-best-smartphone-cameras-in-the-world-can-do/the-pixel-4s-hdr-does-well-to-capture-indoor-shots-as-well-as-the-details-outside-the-window-/slideshow/72266319.cms">These normal, everyday photos I took with the Pixel 4 show what one of the best smartphone cameras in the world can do</a> <meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

How to use Google’s Pixel Repair Tool to get faster Android updates

Reliance Jio recently started rolling out Wi-Fi calling feature across India. The company has a list of compatible devices on its <a href="https://www.jio.com/en-in/jio-wifi-calling">website</a> which currently includes over 150 smartphones. Unfortunately, the list does not include any OnePlus smartphone at the moment. Luckily, we have just the right solution for you. If you have a OnePlus smartphone and cannot wait for Jio to add <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/reliance-jio-vowifi-is-now-rolling-out-in-delhi-and-chennai/articleshow/73155307.cms">Wi-Fi calling support</a> for your device, there’s a workaround using which you can enable Wi-Fi calling on your device. How to enable Jio Wi-Fi calling on OnePlus smartphones <ul><li>To begin, download and install <a href="https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/oneplus-ltd/onepluslogkit/onepluslogkit-1-0-release/">OnePlusLogKit 1.0</a> on your device. </li><li>If you get the prompt, enable “Install from Unknown Sources” on your phone. </li><li>Now, open the Dialer on your phone and dial ‘*#800#’. </li><li>Your phone will display a warning. Click ‘Enter’. </li><li>Now, tap on ‘oneplus Logkit’. </li><li>Now, go to Function Switch and enable VoWiFi switch. </li><li>Your phone will now ask you to reboot the phone. Select “okay”. </li><li>Now, go to Settings &gt; Wi-Fi &amp; Internet &gt; SIM &amp; network &gt; SIM 1 / 2 (Jio 4G) &gt; Enhanced Communications &gt; Turn on Wi-Fi Calling . </li></ul>Now, you will be able to see the VoWiFi icon in status bar of your device and you will be able to use Wi-Fi calling when connected to a Wi-Fi network. See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/reliance-jio-vowifi-is-now-rolling-out-in-delhi-and-chennai/articleshow/73155307.cms">Reliance Jio now lets you make calls over any Wi-Fi network</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/heres-how-to-enable-airtel-wi-fi-calling-on-your-smartphone/articleshow/72452759.cms">Here’s how to enable Airtel Wi-Fi calling on your smartphone</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/all-you-need-to-know-about-jios-2020-happy-new-year-offer-with-data-and-voice-benefits-for-1-year/articleshow/72942011.cms">All you need to know about Jio’s 2020 Happy New Year offer with data and voice benefits for 1 year</a> <meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

How to enable Jio Wi-Fi calling on OnePlus smartphones

When you purchase a new Apple device, you get a limited period warranty with the device. An iPhone comes with a one-year warranty for manufacturing defects and hardware failures and free technical support for 90 days. If you don’t remember when the device was purchased and want to check if your device is under warranty or not, you can use Apple’s ‘Check Coverage’ website. In addition to showing you your warranty details, the website will also let you know if you can avail free technical support. How to check if your iPhone is under warranty <ul><li>On your iPhone, open the settings app. </li><li>Now, click on ‘General’ and tap on ‘About’. </li><li>On the ‘About’ page, you will be able to see the serial number of your iPhone. </li><li>Tap on the serial number and hold down till the ‘Copy’ option appears. </li><li>Tap on the ‘Copy’ button to copy the serial number. </li><li>Now, use the browser to visit the <a href="https://checkcoverage.apple.com/">Check Coverage website</a>. </li><li>Paste the serial number in the box. </li><li>Enter the captcha and click the ‘Continue’ button. </li></ul>You will now be taken to a new page where you will be able to see if you have access to telephone technical support and if you have repairs and service coverage. You can also view the estimated expiry date of your warranty. You can use the same website to find the warranty information for other Apple devices such as iWatch, iPad, TV or Mac. See also: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/how-to/transfer-whatsapp-message-android-iphone/articleshow/73086587.cms">How to transfer WhatsApp messages from Android to iPhone</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/how-to/how-to-move-contacts-from-android-phone-to-iphone/articleshow/73033010.cms">How to move contacts from Android phone to iPhone</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/how-to/move-contacts-iphone-to-android/articleshow/72996767.cms">How to move contacts from your iPhone to your Android phone</a> <meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

Here is how you can check if your iPhone is under warranty and eligible for free tech support

Even though most phones come with more than one camera, most users are unaware of how to fully utilise the power of having three camera lenses. Smartphone makers may be launching triple camera phones, but they differ from device to device. This is because each variant differs in the cameras lenses used in the combination. Some of the most popular applications so far are depth sensors, wide-angle or ultra wide angle lens, monochrome lenses and telephoto lens. Here’s how each sensor enhances what your camera is capable of capturing: <meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

mobile solutions

Top Stories

Here’s how to know if your phone is hacked

Shadab Rabbani

How to recover deleted text messages on Android

Rounak Jain

How to turn on Google Assistant-powered Ambient Mode on OneP…

Rounak Jain

Latest Stories

Did you know 1 in 6 smartphones has feces on it? — here are ways to clean it

Rounak Jain

How to use Google’s Pixel Repair Tool to get faster Android updates

Rounak Jain

How to enable Jio Wi-Fi calling on OnePlus smartphones

Rounak Jain

Here is how you can check if your iPhone is under warranty and eligible for free tech support

Rounak Jain

How to effectively use your triple camera phone

BI India Tech Bureau