Category Archives: Internet

Internet

How to Prevent Random Requests for Your Location on Google Maps

If someone manages to request your location on Google Maps, it means they either guessed your Gmail address or found it on one of your social media accounts. In any case, it’s a good idea to review all the places online where you may have shared your Google email address or the phone number linked to Google Maps. Consider removing these details from public view or using a different email address and phone number if you can’t avoid sharing your contact information. Alternatively, if possible, adjust your account settings to only allow approved connections to view your accounts and personal information.

It’s important to note that only people who share their location with you should have the ability to request your location. If you receive an email notification requesting access to your whereabouts, you should also receive a notification email informing you that the person has shared their location with you. They will need to show you their email address and profile photo. Although these two things can be falsified, you can at least verify with friends and family that the accounts indeed belong to them and are not fake.

Artificial Intelligence, Internet, News, Technology

ChatGPT Introduces Web Browsing, But Only for Paid Subscribers

It’s worth noting that not everyone can use ChatGPT’s web browsing feature for free. Currently, OpenAI has limited access to the feature to ChatGPT Plus and Enterprise users who pay a monthly fee for an enhanced version of the chatbot. Whether it’s worth the price depends on your specific needs. OpenAI highlights several use cases for this updated chatbot version.

One notable improvement is the ability to provide users with real-time information on a wide range of topics, including news, stock market updates, sports scores, and weather forecasts. Unlike traditional search engines, ChatGPT doesn’t just present data; it can also draw conclusions and offer suggestions for the best course of action.

This capability can be extremely valuable for professionals working in finance, research, and data analysis, where accurate and current information is crucial. It can also assist content creators in producing engaging content that incorporates the latest trends and developments. While it’s early to judge its effectiveness in this new form, ChatGPT is likely to offer users more informative, helpful, and up-to-date responses.

Internet, News

The FCC’s Plans to Restore Net Neutrality

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has ambitious plans to restore net neutrality, aligning with the Biden administration’s goal of providing fast and affordable broadband internet access nationwide. However, the implementation of these plans may not be straightforward. The FCC will conduct a vote next month and seek public recommendations on the draft proposal before finalizing the rules. To achieve its goal, the FCC aims to bring internet service providers (ISPs) under Title II of the Communications Act of 1934. This classification would grant the FCC legal powers to prevent activities like website blocking, prioritizing certain internet traffic, and manipulating information flow.

At a press conference, FCC Chief Rosenworcel emphasized the importance of an open internet, expressing concerns about traffic manipulation, access slowdowns, and other objectionable practices. In an official statement, she also highlighted the responsibility of telecom service providers in protecting customer information. Rosenworcel asserted that selling user location data or other sensitive information should be prohibited, and broadband players should not have access to such data to train AI models or track user whereabouts.

However, industry stakeholders are not fully supportive of the FCC’s proposal. Jonathan Spalter, President & CEO of USTelecom, argues that treating broadband as a Title II utility can be a problematic and costly solution without a clear problem to address. The future of an open internet hangs in the balance as these debates continue.

Internet, News

Tinder’s Expensive Subscription: Why It Costs $500 A Month

Earlier this year, Tinder announced its plans to introduce a new subscription plan that could set users back around $500 per month. Mark Van Ryswyk, Tinder’s chief product officer, revealed to Fast Company that this upcoming tier, codenamed “Tinder Vault,” was in the works. Speculation circulated that this premium subscription would provide users with “high-quality matches” and an “even more enjoyable experience” for those who take online dating seriously.

However, the groundwork for Tinder Select was laid out years ago. In 2017, the original Tinder Select app was launched as a secretive spin-off, specifically targeting affluent users such as successful executives, supermodels, and other highly desirable individuals. Last year, Match Group acquired The League, another exclusive and invite-only dating app that charges a whopping $1,000 per week and maintains a highly selective approach towards its user base, consisting of ambitious individuals looking for long-term relationships.

Ryswyk explained that Tinder Select was designed to cater to a subset of highly engaged and active users who prioritize efficient and effective ways of finding connections. While the company does not anticipate a large number of users willing to pay the $500 monthly fee for online dating, Ryswyk did not delve into the specifics of what sets Tinder Select apart from the cheaper Plus tier, priced at $7.99 per month, or the $26.99 per month Platinum option.

Internet

Is TikTok Down (Or Is It Just You)? Here’s How To Tell

When you can’t log into an app or service, your first thought might be that your internet connection is down. Unfortunately, even people with fast connections and new routers experience this problem.

The first thing you should do to determine if your lack of TikTok access is your problem is to check if your broadband is working elsewhere. Can you connect to the internet on your computer, smartphone, tablet, game console, or any other device? If you can’t connect, even after disconnecting and reconnecting in the settings, you should investigate the issue with your router.

If your router has a reset button (like many Xfinity routers with their confusing orange lights), press and hold it until the router reboots. If your router doesn’t have a reset button, you can try the old method of turning it off, waiting for a minute, and then turning it back on. You can also try using mobile data to see if it’s your connection or the app causing the problem.

Of course, if you’re away from home and using a different connection, these steps won’t apply. But if you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and still can’t get online, it’s likely that there’s an issue with your network. It’s a good idea to check for any notifications from your service provider about a wider outage, or contact them directly for assistance.

Internet

How To Cancel Your Xfinity Account And Get A Refund

Comcast provides several methods for customers who want to fully cancel their service. If you prefer talking on the phone, you can request a call back from a Comcast support agent via the company’s website. Alternatively, if you prefer not to talk on the phone, you can use the company’s “chat with an agent” feature available on the Comcast website.

If you’re not in a hurry, there’s a cancellation form you can fill out. The company will call you to confirm the request. Another option is to visit your local Xfinity retail store in person to start the cancellation process. During cancellation, you can also inquire about getting a refund for any prepaid balance. If a refund is granted, you can track its balance on Comcast’s Xfinity Refunds website.

If you’re planning a prolonged vacation or will be abroad for an extended period, you have an alternative option. You can simply pause the service on Comcast’s Seasonal website. This makes it easier to resume the service in the future when you return.

Internet, News

Elon Musk’s X Reverses Twitter’s Ban On Political Ads

X, under the ownership of Elon Musk, has announced that it will allow political ads on its platform. However, the company is taking precautionary measures to ensure the integrity of these ads. It plans to vet interested groups before approving their ads. Additionally, X will launch an advertising transparency center where users can review the political ads being promoted on their feeds. Furthermore, X is utilizing its community to combat misinformation through its Community Notes feature, which allows users to fact-check and label posts based on their accuracy.

To maintain a balance between political debate and civic responsibility, X will label political ads that violate its Civic Integrity Policy. The group behind these ads will be notified if their reach is restricted. The company aims to strengthen its team responsible for overseeing elections and safety to detect threats such as manipulation and the presence of fake accounts.

X is striving to increase engagement under Musk’s leadership, and political content appears to be a promising avenue. Recently, former US President Donald Trump, who was permanently banned from X in 2021, made a return and gained attention with a widely circulated meme-ified mugshot. Additionally, an interview with Trump conducted by former Fox News host Tucker Carlson received over 260 million views on X.