Eliana Willis

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  • 163 Shares169 Views

    in Information Technology

    9 ways to delete yourself from the internet (and hide your identity online)

    ZDNETThere is a very thin line between our physical and digital identities.A PC or mobile device with an internet connection lets us stay entertained, research, purchase items, study, and work. Friends and family can use social media to keep tabs on how your life is going, and we can use these profiles, personal websites, and email to communicate with others. Also: The best VPN servicesBenefits of having an online presence aside, some employers will evaluate your social media presence when you apply for a new job to decide if you are a suitable candidate. Advertisers constantly invade your privacy by scraping publicly available information on you, your public profiles, and your search history for targeted marketing. A misjudged tweet from years ago or an inappropriate Facebook photo can destroy future job prospects or ruin a career. There’s the idea that once something is online, it is immortal, immutable, and almost impossible to contain. The golden rule is simple: Don’t put anything online you wouldn’t want your grandmother to see. Although sometimes you aren’t in control of what gets published, and once something detrimental to you is out there, it can be tough to separate yourself. Also: How to find out if an AirTag is tracking you – and what to do about itAbuse, stalking, and bullying may also factor as reasons to erase our digital footprints and seize control of our devices. How to remove yourself from the internet and hide your identityIf you want to take control of your privacy and online data, you can take some simple steps to begin the process and then decide how much time and effort you want to contribute to the endeavor. Read on to find out where to start. More

  • 200 Shares169 Views

    in Robotics

    Why your solar-powered power bank isn’t as reliable as you think (and what to use instead)

    Solar-powered power banks are common, but are they any good? In a word, no.  Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNETSolar-powered power banks seem like a fantastic idea; attach some solar panels to a power bank, and you have a free power source whenever the sun is shining.However, the reality is different from this idyllic vision of limitless energy.Also: This Windows 11 tablet survived my torture tests – and business users will love itI’ve tested nearly two dozen solar-powered power banks, ranging from devices purchased online to ones bought from camping and outdoor supply stores. Unfortunately, every single device has been disappointingly ineffective — and some have even been potentially dangerous.Using such a device means placing a power bank, a box filled with lithium-ion batteries, in direct sunlight. And that’s a big problem. I’ve found that a power bank left in the sun on a modestly hot day can hit temperatures as high as 80°C/176°F, which is incredibly hot for lithium batteries.  More

  • 88 Shares149 Views

    in Robotics

    The best free tax software of 2025

    This year, tax filings and respective payments are due on April 15, though the IRS began accepting filings starting on Jan. 27. If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, now is the chance to check filing off your to-do list early. Tax filing takes preparation, time, and careful attention, so understanding the tools available is key to completing your taxes with ease.Using a tax preparation service or hiring a professional tax specialist is a great strategy if it’s within your budget and time frame. However, many people don’t know that there are free tax filing software options available online if you’re looking to complete a simple tax file. Also: The best VPNs for added security online: Tested and reviewedWhat is the best free tax software right now?ZDNET rounded up some of the best free tax software options for simple filing that can aid you this season. Our pick for best free tax software overall is Cash App Taxes More