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Comment by Donna Sue Fraley on [WOW] ASCII Artwork - An Internet Treasure (December 21, 2024 07:14 AM)
Ohhhh gosh, how this brought back memories! I was a rider on the Bus when it first came into being! And I do indeed remember when the squirrels starte...
Comment by howard on [WOW] ASCII Artwork - An Internet Treasure (December 21, 2024 02:34 AM)
I remember the days long ago when Steve and Johnnie, were on the overnight show on WGN radio, one day a week he would be on answering callers computer...
Comment by Cheryl C on [WOW] ASCII Artwork - An Internet Treasure (December 20, 2024 10:36 PM)
Patrick's squirrel signature was because squirrels were frequently chewing on the electrical lines into the house interrupting internet access....
Comment by Donna on [WOW] ASCII Artwork - An Internet Treasure (December 20, 2024 08:06 PM)
I'm a bus-rider from way back, too! Thanks so much for this blast from the past; love it!...
Comment by Bryan Hanes on [WOW] ASCII Artwork - An Internet Treasure (December 20, 2024 07:41 PM)
I was a happy rider of the “Internet Tourbus” in the 90’s. I believe that the Squirrels were antagonizing the wiring at the University of Alaba...
Comment by Thom on [WOW] ASCII Artwork - An Internet Treasure (December 20, 2024 07:18 PM)
Wow, is right! This brings back a lot of memories of the early days of the Internet....
Comment by Peppi on The Click That Could Cost You (December 20, 2024 08:01 AM)
Windows 11 home is not build well. Never had any security problems with Windows 10 for 7 years home version. But Windows 11 is easy to crack by phishe...
Comment by Sarah L on 14 Computer Facts That Are Not True (December 20, 2024 05:10 AM)
AdBlocker Plus is not clearing the screen of the ads that come with your post. Did you change what ads you buy? If I cannot block the ads, it is near ...
Comment by John Burrows on The Click That Could Cost You (December 20, 2024 02:35 AM)
Can it be dangerous to scan a QR code?...
Comment by Bob K on The Click That Could Cost You (December 20, 2024 01:18 AM)
Tom wrote: Bob - really like your articles, however I never have liked McAfee, there are much better software out there, ---------------------- Ind...
Telephony Articles
Telcos Pulling the Plug on Landlines?
Less than two percent of U.S. homes have only a landline without cellphone service. Millions of consumers are 'cutting the cord' of landline phone service and switching to cellular or VoIP (Internet calling) services. If you’re one of the holdouts, you may be forced to give up your beloved copper-based phone line. Here’s an update on why landlines are doomed, and a look at some alternatives you should be considering…
...Who is Winning the Robocall Wars?
With billions of calls made each year in the United States, robocalls continue to be one of the most widespread annoyances in the telecom industry. You've probably been annoyed by 'Rachel in Card Services' or 'Jennifer from the Warranty Department' recently. Even with improvements in technology and regulations, the fight against robocalls is far from ended. Here's a closer look at our current situation in 2024 and the resources at our disposal to address this problem. Read on...
...Do You Need eSIM?
Every mobile phone buyer knows the ritual of inserting a SIM card into his or her new purchase. It’s become more of a challenge as the size of SIM cards has steadily shrunk. But the latest phones don’t need a SIM card to connect to a cellular service carrier such as Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T. Instead, they can use a hardware format called “eSIM” which stands for “embedded subscriber identity module.” Let’s examine how eSIM works, what new features it enables, and whether eSIM capability is something you want to use in your smartphone. Read on...
...Free Phone Service With Ooma Telo?
Have you seen those commercials for a gadget called Ooma Telo that promises to replace your landline, virtually eliminate your phone bill, and give you crystal clear voice call quality? Read on to see if this home phone device lives up to the hype...
...Will Ting Mobile Reduce Your Mobile Phone Bill?
Mobile phone service plans can be confusing. You pay a certain amount for an allotment of minutes, text messages, and mobile data. But at the end of each month, you may see that you didn't use all you paid for. Or worse, you have to pay EXTRA for going over your allotment of minutes or data. And then there are the hidden fees, and inscrutable contract stipulations. Ting Mobile feels your pain, and promises not to rely on confusion to turn a profit. Read on to check out some of the Ting plans that can save you money on your mobile phone bill...
...[CLEVER] Add a Second Line to Your Smartphone
Have you ever wished you had a second line on your mobile phone? Do you have one cell phone for personal calls, and another for business or some other purpose? It's a nuisance to carry two phones, and expensive too. Isn't there some way to add a second line to a smartphone? Well, yes, and there are some other very good reasons for doing so, even if you're not running a business. Read on for several options...
...Time to Break Up With Your Phone Company?
A few years back, I published an article that started with these words: “Everyone hates the phone company.” But since then, every time I write on the topic of mobile phone providers, the feedback from AskBob readers is loud and clear: “We Love Consumer Cellular!” I've been a Verizon customer for 20+ years, so I decided to take a closer look at Consumer Cellular and find out why folks think it's so great. Read on for my review of Consumer Cellular and see what this mobile phone company does that others do not...
...Will This Gadget Replace Your Landline?
In its advertising, Magic Jack appears to be a device that you can plug into your computer and fire the phone company. It sounds too good to be true. So is MagicJack a scam, or does it actually work? Can it really replace your landline, and eliminate your monthly phone bill?” Read on for the surprising answer, and some news about Magic Jack for those who may have considered it in the past...
...Free Home Phone Service With Ooma?
Have you seen those TV commercials for an odd-sounding gadget called Ooma that promises to replace your landline, virtually eliminate your phone bill, and give you crystal clear voice quality? Read on to see if this home phone device lives up to the hype...
...Ting-a-Ling! Save on Your Mobile Phone Bill
Mobile phone service plans can be maddeningly confusing. You pay a certain amount for a bucket of minutes, text messages, and mobile data. But at the end of each month, you may see that you didn't use all you paid for. Or worse, you have to pay EXTRA for going over your allotment of minutes or data. Ting feels your pain, and promises not to rely on confusion to turn a profit. Read on to check out some of the Ting plans that can save you money on your mobile phone bill...
...[PHONE SCAMS] Are You Among the Most Gullible?
Losses due to phone scams in the U.S. have continued to skyrocket from year to year. Americans lost an estimated $29.8 billion to phone scams in the past 12 months, according to the latest Truecaller Insights US Spam & Scam Report. More than 59 million people (almost 1 in 4 adults) lost money to phone scammers last year, up from 1 in 5 the previous year, and that number is the highest it's been in five years. You'll be surprised to learn who is most likely to fall for a phone scam. Read on!
...How to Add a Second Line to Your Smartphone
Do you have one mobile phone for personal calls, and another for business or some other purpose? It's a nuisance to carry two phones, and expensive too. Isn't there some way to add a second line to a smartphone? Well, yes, and there are some other very good reasons for doing so, even if you're not running a business. Read on for several options…
...How Soon Will Your Landline Be Obsolete?
Less than two percent of U.S. adults have only a landline without cellphone service. Millions of consumers are 'cutting the cord' of landline phone service and switching to cellular or VoIP (Internet calling) services. If you’re one of the holdouts, you may be forced to give up your beloved copper-based phone line in the next few years. Here is why landlines are doomed, and a look at some alternatives you should be considering...
...Ring With Ting - Save on Your Mobile Phone Bill
Mobile phone service plans (and those deliberately confusing monthly bills) can be maddening. You pay a certain amount for a bucket of minutes, text messages, and mobile data. But at the end of each month, you may see that you didn't use all you paid for. Or worse, you have to pay EXTRA for going over your allotment of minutes or data. Ting feels your pain, and has some options that can save you money on your mobile phone bill…
...Will MagicJack Replace My Landline?
Here’s a common AskBob reader question: “I've seen advertisements for Magic Jack, a gadget you can plug into your computer and fire the phone company. It sounds too good to be true... is MagicJack a scam, or does it actually work? Can it really replace my landline, and eliminate my monthly phone bill?” Read on for the surprising answers…
...Do You Love Your Phone Company?
A few years ago I wrote an article that started with these words: “Everyone hates the phone company.” But every time I write on the topic of mobile phone providers, the feedback from AskBob readers is loud and clear: “We Love Consumer Cellular!” I've been a Verizon customer for 20 years, so I decided to take a closer look at Consumer Cellular and find out why folks think it's so great. Read on to see what this mobile phone company does that others do not...
...Fed Up With Robocalls and Telemarketers? (choose your weapon)
It’s a dirty job, but somebody has got to do it so the rest of us can enjoy the benefits of living in a civilized society. I’m talking about actually talking to telemarketers. Why? To sue them, of course! Here's how it works, and some tips on getting relief from those annoying telemarketing and robocalls...
...[PHONE SCAMS] Who Are the Most Gullible?
Phone scams in the USA have skyrocketed in the past few months. Americans lost an estimated $19.7 billion to phone scams in the past 12 months, according to the lastest Truecaller Insights US Spam & Scam Report. More than 1 in 5 adults lost money to phone scammers last year, up from 1 in 6 the previous year, and that number is the highest it's been in five years. You'll be surprised to learn who is most likely to fall for a phone scam. You might even qualify for a scam refund. Read on!
...[HOWTO] Add a Second Line to Your Smartphone
A reader asks: “I have a mobile phone that I use for personal calls, and another one just for business calls. It's a nuisance to carry two phones, and expensive too. Isn't there some way to add a second line to a smartphone?” Well, yes, and there are some other very good reasons for doing so, even if you're not running a business. Read on for several options...
...Hello, Tello? Roll Your Own Phone Plan
Competition among mobile phone service providers is getting more intense. That’s good for consumers, as it drives prices lower and erodes the anachronistic tyranny of long-term contracts that effectively enslave us to entrenched carriers. On the flipside, one example of free enterprise at its finest is Tello. Let's take a look at how it works...
Want to Reduce Your Mobile Phone Bill?
For many, the mobile phone bill is one of the major expenses in the monthly budget. The average smartphone bill is about $80 per month, but I've got some tips for paring down that bill and keeping it under control. Read on to learn how to save on your monthly mobile phone bill...
...Are We Winning the Robocall Wars?
Are you sick and tired of having your day interrupted by 'Rachel from Card Services' or 'Jennifer from the Warranty Department'? Despite advances in technology, new laws, and the threat of enormous fines, the robocall problem is getting worse every year. Today's article describes the epic takedown of one Robocall King, the reason why you're getting so many unwanted calls from local numbers, and gives some new tools to fight robocalls. Read on for the story...
...Is Your Landline Obsolete?
Millions of consumers are 'cutting the cords' of landline phone service and switching to cellular or VoIP (Internet calling) services. If you’re one of the holdouts, you may be forced to give up your beloved copper-based phone line in the next few years. Here is why landlines are doomed, and a look at some alternatives you should be considering...
...Which Mobile Phone Service Has the Strongest Signal?
When choosing a mobile phone carrier, you want to know which one has a good strong signal and a fast 4G (or 5G) data connection, in the places where you actually use your cell phone. In their advertising, Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T and Sprint all make various claims about network coverage, reliability and speed. All of them claim to 'best' in some way. But is there a way to honestly compare which one is best where YOU live and work? Yes, read on for that, and a personal note about some new members of the family here...
...Geekly Update - 13 November 2019
Can you still upgrade your Windows 7 computer to Windows 10 for free? Is your antivirus software making it EASIER for hackers to gain access to your computer? And will quantum computers ruin everything? Get answers in today's Geekly Update -- it's jam-packed with the latest tech news. This issue is guaranteed to make you 146% smarter -- you'll see why. Read, think, and, comment!
...Will VoIP Service Replace Your Landline?
A reader asks: 'I have both a landline and a mobile phone, so I'm thinking of dropping the landline phone in favor of VoIP phone service, to save some money. What is your opinion of VoIP, and what are the pros and cons of using it to replace a traditional landline?' Read on for the scoop...
...Are You Fed Up With Telemarketers? (here's the answer)
Yes, it’s a dirty job, but somebody’s got to do it so the rest of us can enjoy the benefits of living in a civilized society. I’m talking about actually talking to telemarketers. Why? To sue them, of course! Here's how it works, and some tips on getting relief (I'm talking real money here) from those annoying telemarketing and robocalls…
...Will Ting Save You Money on Your Mobile Phone Bill?
Mobile phone service plans (and those confusing monthly bills) can be maddening. You pay a certain amount for a bucket of minutes, text messages, and mobile data. But at the end of each month, you may see that you didn't use all you paid for. Or worse, you have to pay EXTRA for going over your allotments. Ting feels your pain, and has a solution that can save you money on your mobile phone bill...
...Get Out of Voice Mail Jail, Free!
Are you one of those people who hates Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems - otherwise known as voice mail jail? Automated voice menu mazes can be annoying, frustrating, and time-wasting. It is especially irritating when a voice-recognition system didn't understand your request and makes you repeat yourself in an ever louder voice. Here are some tips to help you break free of the voice menus and reach a customer service agent who can help...
...Will MagicJack Replace Your Landline?
Here’s a common question: “I've seen those commercials for Magic Jack, a gadget you can plug into your computer to eliminate your phone bill. It sounds too good to be true... is MagicJack a scam, or does it actually work? Can it really replace my landline?” Read on for answers...
...Choose Your Weapon in the Robocall Wars
Are you sick and tired of having your dinner interrupted by Rachel from Card Services? Despite advances in technology, new laws, and the threat of enormous fines, the robocall problem is getting worse every year. Today's article describes the epic takedown of one Robocall King, the reason why you're getting so many unwanted calls from local numbers, and gives some new tools to fight robocalls. Read on for the story...
...[SHAKEN OR STIRRED?] Blocking Phone Scams and Robocalls
The FCC estimates that 2.4 BILLION robocalls are placed every month. But two new telephony standards could put a big dent in the number of annoying and scammy robocalls that ring your phone, while allowing legit robocalls to reach you. T-mobile has already implemented these standards on its network, leaving AT&T, Sprint, and Verizon scrambling to catch up. Here is what you need to know about the fight against robocallers...
...What Is eSIM And Do You Need It?
Every smartphone buyer knows the ritual of inserting a SIM card into his or her new purchase. It’s become more of a challenge as the size of SIM cards has steadily shrunk. But the latest phones from Apple and Google don’t need a SIM card to connect to a cellular service carrier such as Verizon or AT&T. Instead, they can use a new hardware format called “eSIM” which stands for “embedded subscriber identity module.” Let’s examine how eSIM works, what new features it enables, and whether eSIM capability is something you want to look for in your next smartphone. Read on...
...Why City Folks Must Fight For Rural Broadband
The major ISPs and the federal government have utterly failed in their duty to provide broadband service to rural Americans. If you live in a city or suburban area with excellent Internet service, should you care? The answer is YES. Read on to find out why extending high-speed Internet to wide-open spaces could put more money in your pocket...
...Time To Ban Caller-ID Spoofing (Again)?
Your phone rings, and a quick glance at the area code helps you decide to answer the call. But instead of a forgotten friend or a local business client, you get “Heather from Account Services,” offering to lower your credit card interest rate. Again. Just like yesterday. And the day before. Here's the scoop on what you can do about this annoying problem…
...[HOWTO] Get a Secret Second Phone Number
To avoid identity theft, you may take special pains to keep your Social Security Number private. But what about your phone number? Increasingly, phone numbers are being used to invade your private space, and con you out of money. Here's how to get a second “secret" phone number for free, or at least on the cheap...
...Android Tip: Block Calls and Texts
A reader asks: 'I am really tired of hearing from “Heather in Account Services” and all the other telephone scammers, robotic or human. I’m also tired of folks who repeatedly dial the wrong number, debt collectors who won’t believe “Sharon” doesn’t own my phone, and miscellaneous other nuisances that light up my phone. Oh, and phishing texts, too. What can I do to block unwanted calls and text messages on my Android smartphone?"
...[HOWTO] Add a Second Line to Your Phone
A reader asks: “I have one smartphone that I use for personal calls, and another one used only for business calls. It's a nuisance to carry two phones, and expensive too. Isn't there some way to add a second line to a mobile phone?” Well, yes, and there are some other very good reasons for doing so. Read on for several options...
...[HOWTO] Avoid Voice Menu Mazes
Are you one of those people who hates Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems - otherwise known as voice mail jail? Automated voice menu systems can be annoying, frustrating, and time-wasting. It is especially irritating when a voice-recognition system didn't understand your request and makes you repeat yourself in an ever louder voice. Here are some tips to help you break free of the voice menus and reach a real person...
...Need Robocall Relief? Here's How to Fight Back
Robocalls are on the rise, despite government regulations prohibiting commercial robocalls. The FCC estimates that 2.4 BILLION robocalls are placed every month, or about seven per U.S. resident. The FTC says it received nearly 3.5 million complaints about robocalls in fiscal year 2016. That’s up an alarming 60% over the same period last year! Here's what you can do to fight back…
...Replace Your Landline With MagicJack?
A reader asks: “I've seen those commercials for Magic Jack, a gadget you can plug into your computer for really cheap phone service. It sounds too good to be true... is MagicJack a scam, or does it actually work? Can it really replace my landline?” Read on for answers...
...The New Google Voice: Love or Hate?
Google Voice recently got its first major update in five years, and it’s a mixed bag. The user interface is different, which always upsets some users. Will you love it or hate it? Let's take a look at what's new and different...
...Is This Amazon's Skype Killer?
Amazon has launched a voice calling and videoconferencing service called “Amazon Chime.” There's a free “Basic” service is useful to consumers, and a paid version targeted at businesses. Free Chime competes with other free voice/video/text messaging systems such as Skype and Google Voice/Hangouts. Let’s see how Amazon Chime stacks up.
...Do You Need A Secret Phone Number?
To avoid identity theft, you may take special pains to keep your Social Security Number private. But what about your phone number? Increasingly, phone numbers are being used to invade your private space, and con you out of money. Here's how to get a second “secret" phone number for free, or at least on the cheap…
...[HOWTO] Stop Annoying Robocalls
If you ever called your phone carrier to demand it block all robocalls, you probably heard the excuse, “We can’t legally do that.” That’s a lie, and the FCC is tired of being its scapegoat. Here's what you and the FCC can do to help stop annoying telemarketers and robocalls...
...[BYOP] Republic Wireless Just Got Better
I've written about and recommended Republic Wireless as a way to save money on your mobile phone bill. They've recently made some changes to their plans and offerings which may save you even more. Read on for the scoop...
...[FLIP] The Rise of Anti-Smartphones
Those of us old enough to remember 90s-era flip phones often wax nostalgic about their elegant simplicity and ruggedness. They were good for phone calls and texts, and not much else. But it seems that those so-called “dumb phones" are making a comeback, and you'll be surprised at some of the people who are sporting them. Read on to learn why, and which models are available...
...Are Modular Phones The Next Big Thing?
Many smartphone users and pundits complain that we have reached “Peak Phone” already. The form factor, size, and features of a smartphone vary only in insignificant ways from one make and model to another. Apple is struggling to generate excitement with every new version of the iPhone. Samsung, HTC, and other Android smartphones are by and large indistinguishable. But there is a new concept in phone design that could change all that…
...[RING!] Hybrid Phone Service Innovations
Hybrid cars run on electricity and switch to gas power only when needed. In similar fashion, hybrid mobile phones operate on a WiFi signal, and switch to the cellular network only when WiFi is not available. This approach can save you a chunk of change on your mobile phone bill, so read on to learn more, and where to get a hybrid calling plan…
...[HACKED] Is Someone Listening to Your Calls?
The April 17, 2016, edition of “60 Minutes” featured a deeply disturbing segment entitled, “Hacking Your Phone.” In it, a German white-hat hacker named Karsten Nohl chillingly demonstrated how easily he could track and eavesdrop on a U. S. Congressman's mobile phone. Is your mobile phone also vulnerable to the same hack...?
...Who Falls For Phone Scams?
Americans lost an estimated $7.4 billion to phone scams in 2015, according to an online Harris Poll survey. It’s projected that 27 million of us got taken by phone scammers last year, Based on the self-selected survey sample; that number is up 53% from 2014. You'll be surprised to learn who is most likely to fall for a phone scam. Read on!
...Are Landlines Doomed to Extinction?
Millions of people are cutting the cords of landline phone service and switching to cellular or VoIP (Voice-over-Internet Protocol). If you’re one of the holdouts, you may be forced to give up you copper-based phone line in the next 5 to 10 years. Here is why landlines are doomed, and a look at four alternatives so commonplace you can buy them at Walmart…
...Do You Still Have a Landline?
If you still have landline phone service, you are in a rapidly shrinking minority. Only 27 percent of U.S. households were still using landlines at the end of 2013, according to data from the FCC. By the end of 2015, households relying exclusively or primarily on landlines will shrink to just 11 percent of total households. Many of those homes are switching to VoIP service. Here's what you need to know...
...Free WiFi Calling On Major Carriers
If you have a mobile calling plan that limits the number of minutes or text messages you can use each month, you'll be interested in today's article. Likewise, if you spend time in buildings where the cellular signal is poor, you'll want to learn more about WiFi Calling. Read on...
...Make Money By Suing Telemarketers?
Paging Mike Rowe! It’s a dirty job, but somebody’s got to do it so the rest of us can enjoy the benefits of living in a civilized society. I’m talking about talking to telemarketers. Why? To sue them, of course! Here's how it works...
...Google Hangouts - Finally Usable?
Has Google Hangouts worked out the annoying kinks, and removed the hoops through which users formerly had to jump to enjoy free phone calls, video chat and messaging? Hangouts promises to be the "one app for all your conversations" on desktop or mobile devices. So are we there yet? Read on...
...How “Silent Calls” Lead To Identity Theft
We’ve all had the experience of answering a phone call only to hear nothing. Typically, we just hang up and shrug. But those “silent calls” are the first step in well-organized campaigns to steal identities and bank account balances. Here is how these scams work, and what you should do to protect yourself…
...FCC Cracks Down On Robocalls
It was a busy week for the Federal Communications Commission. But the thing that most people will cheer is a set of new “declaratory rulings” clarifying the rights of landline and mobile phone users when it comes to automated calls and texts from marketers. Read on to learn about new tools you can use to fight back against telemarketers…
...Can MagicJack Replace Your Landline?
A reader asks: “I've seen commercials for Magic Jack, a device you can plug into your computer for really cheap phone service. It sounds too good to be true... is MagicJack a scam, or does it actually work? Can it really replace my landline?” Read on for answers...
...Tox: Skype With Privacy
In an age where online security seems broken, and online privacy an illusion, we need new tools to empower communication without fear that someone is listening, recording, or transcribing every word we say. Tox is one such effort, an alternative to Skype, without all the corporate tentacles. Read on to learn how it works...
...Tox: Skype With Privacy
In an age where online security seems broken, and online privacy an illusion, we need new tools to empower communication without fear that someone is listening, recording, or transcribing every word we say. Tox is one such effort, an alternative to Skype, without all the corporate tentacles. Read on to learn how it works...
...Where Has Google Voice Gone?
Google Voice isn’t going away, as some headlines suggest. Instead, it’s going everywhere. If you're not up to speed on this nifty service that lets you make free phone calls, read on...
...Send Free Text Messages, With or Without a Phone!
If your mobile phone carrier charges you to send or receive a text, here's good news. There are several ways to send a free text message, and with some of them you don't even need a mobile phone. If you've ever wanted to send a quick text message and you didn't have a phone handy... or there's no cellular service where you are... or you hate paying international texting rates, read on!
...We REALLY Need to Talk!
Pop singer Carly Rae Jepsen’s chart-topping 2012 song might have been better titled something like, “Call Me Maybe or Maybe Text Me or SnapChat Me Baby, or Instagram Me One More Time...” But then it wouldn’t have topped the charts, would it? There are so many different ways to contact people now that it’s become a hassle just to choose one...
...New Silent Phone Protects Your Privacy
Privacy and security are heightened concerns for many smartphone users in the wake of revelations about government surveillance. The top-tier phone manufacturers are not doing much to address these issues yet, but at least one startup company is. Learn more about Silent Circle and the Blackphone...
...Cheap Phone Calls - MagicJack and Alternatives
A reader asks: I've had it with the phone company, so I'm checking out how to make free or cheap phone calls over the Internet. MagicJack seems popular, but some of the negative reviews are concerning to me. Are there any good alternatives to MagicJack that you can recommend?
...Can VoIP Service Replace Your Landline?
A reader asks: 'I have a landline and a cell phone, so I'm thinking of dropping the landline phone in favor of VoIP phone service, to save some money. What is your opinion of VoIP, and what are the pros and cons of using it to replace a traditional landline?'
...Stop Unwanted Phone Calls
Those pesky telemarketers are still abundant despite the enactment of the National “Do Not Call List” in 2004 and the similar state laws passed in its wake. Why is that, and what can you do to stop these and other unwanted phone calls?
...BasicTalk: Magic, or Smoke and Mirrors?
Attention, Walmart Shoppers! Have you seen the new residential Voice-over-Internet product in the Electronics department? How about the snarky TV commercial that subtly disparages Magic Jack Plus? Does BasicTalk’s package look familiar with its orange, blue, and white color scheme? Do you smell a 'Con-age?'
...Is The Two-Year Mobile Contract Dead?
The big three mobile phone carriers (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint) have used the same pricing scheme for a long time: sell phones at steep discounts and make it up on service contracts that lock customers into monthly payments for at least two years. T-Mobile, the fourth largest carrier, seems to be challenging that paradigm in a way that gives consumers more flexibility. But does it really? Read on to learn more about T-Mobile's new 'no contract' mobile service plans...
...Send Text Messages for Free
A reader asks 'How can I send a text message for free? My mobile phone carrier gives me a small number of free texts, then charges me ten cents to send or receive a text. Is there a way to send a free text message?' Actually, yes! Here's how it works...
...Do You Still Need A Landline?
Between mobile phone service and free VoIP options such as Skype, does anyone really need to keep paying for a traditional landline? Many families have decided they don’t. But before you cut that cord, there are some things you'll need to consider...
...Free Internet Phone Calls
A reader asks: Is there any way to make free phone calls over the Internet? I've had it with the phone company and their never ending fees. I'd appreciate your advice, especially if it will help me drop my landline service for good...
...Free Phone Calls With Bobsled
Bobsled is a free Internet voice and messaging service that lets you make free voice calls to mobile and landline phones in the U. S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. You like free calling? Read on to learn more about Bobsled...
...Five Cool Things You Can Do With Skype
Skype is one of the most popular free services on the Web. With a rich set VOIP calling features it is unequalled by the various copycat programs that offer free internet phone calls. But in addition to making voice calls and chatting online, Skype has a bunch of really cool features you might not be aware of. Read on to learn more about some fun and useful things you can do with Skype...
...Warning: Skype Urgent Online Repair Scam
I just got a phone call on my Skype number which was very strange. It looked like a virus warning, and the caller’s name was 'SYSTEM NOTICE - URGENT ONLINE REPAIR'. I assume this is bogus... right?
...Free Skype Calls on a Cell Phone?
Can I use Skype to make free calls on a cell phone? I'm almost always in a wifi zone, so why not use Skype or other VoIP calling services to make calls, instead of burning up my minutes? Seems logical, but I've heard that some mobile carriers force you to use your minutes even when calling on Skype. I'd love to have this subject clarified, thanks!
...Free Conference Calls With Skype
Does Skype offer a good conference calling experience if you have multiple participants? I know Skype is free, but are there any limitations on conference calls with Skype? Are there other free conference calling services I should check out?
...Cheap Phone Calls - MagicJack Alternatives
I've had it with the phone company, so I'm checking out how to make free or cheap phone calls over the Internet. MagicJack seems popular, but some of the negative reviews are concerning to me. Are there any good alternatives to MagicJack that you can recommend?
...Free Text Messaging Services
How can I send a text message for free? I don't have text messaging on my mobile phone plan, and it costs me ten cents to send or receive a text. Is there a way to send a free text message?
...MagicJack Phone Service
Is Magic Jack phone service for real? I've seen commercials for Magic Jack, a device you can plug into your computer for really cheap phone service. It sounds too good to be true... is MagicJack a scam, or does it really work?
...Is Your Phone Bill Being Crammed?
If you haven't been reading your phone bill line by line, it's time to start. Phone bill cramming - the insertion of unauthorized charges - is a rapidly growing form of fraud. Here's how to detect bogus charges on your phone bill, and what you can do about it...
...Free Conference Calls With Google Voice
Google Voice includes a conference calling feature that allows up to four callers to be connected in a single conversation. Google does not charge for this service, but that doesn't mean it's always free. Here's how Google Voice conference calling works, and some limitations to be aware of...
...Will Microsoft Ruin Skype?
On May 10, 2011, VoIP pioneer Skype agreed to be purchased by Microsoft for the princely sum of $8.5 billion in cash. Is this good news or a bad omen for users of the popular Internet calling software? Here's my take...
...Free VoIP Phone Calls
I've had it with the phone company and their never ending fees. Isn't there a way to make free phone calls over the Internet? I'd appreciate your advice, especially if it will help me drop my landline service for good...
...How to Record a Phone Call
I need to record phone calls for some interviews I will be doing. I know there are some gadgets you can connect to your phone, but I'm thinking that a software solution will work better for voice recording. What do you recommend?
...Free Phone Calls with Google Voice
Google provides a lot of useful and free telephony services, such as Google Voice, Google Talk and Google Phone. But there are a couple of key features missing from Google's line-up of freebies. The requirement to use a PC in order to make calls is a big one -- people want to use phones to make phone calls. A new device promises to solve those problems...
...Vonage Internet Phone Service
I'm thinking about switching to Vonage for my home telephone service. Can it completely replace the landline service I currently get from the phone company? Are there any gotchas I should know about?
...MagicTalk Free Phone Calls
I've seen something called MagicTalk that's supposed to give you free phone calls to landlines and mobile phones. Can I really make free phone calls, or is MagicTalk a scam?
...VOIP Phones
Voice over IP (VoIP) is a great alternative to the traditional landline phones for making phone calls. VoIP even beats cell phones on price - it's free from service providers such as Skype, Yahoo! Voice, and others. But the hardware you use to make free Internet phone calls is another matter. Here's the scoop on the gear you need to make free VOIP calls from your computer...
...What Is Google Voice?
I'm a little confused by Google Voice. It seems like a way to get free phone service, but that sounds too good to be true. Can you explain what Google Voice is, and is not?
...Free Teleconferencing
Voice teleconferencing remains a staple of business despite the proliferation of alternatives such as email, instant messaging, and webinars. When you want a meeting but can’t get everyone together in the same room, it’s natural to call for a teleconference. The problem is that teleconferencing can get expensive...
...Free Phone Calls With iPod Touch
I have an iPod Touch, and it looks almost exactly like an iPhone. Just wondering... is there any way to hack my iPod Touch so it can make phone calls?
...TrapCall Reveals Blocked Caller ID
I've read about TrapCall, a service that claims to be able to reveal the true caller for calls where the callerID info is blocked or hidden. Does Trapcall really work? Are there any privacy concerns or gotchas?
...My New Phone is an iPod Touch
I had myself talked into buying a new phone, and was eagerly checking out the latest phones, smartphones and PDAs. But something happened on the way to the phone store...
...Magic Jack - Good or Evil?
Perhaps you've read reports about spyware in Magic Jack, or heard claims that the company sells your private information to third parties. Here's the scoop...
...Skype: Beyond the Basics
You already know that Skype allows you to use VoIP technology to make phone calls over the Internet. Here's a look at some of the more advanced features, and how to incorporate them into your work or social life...
...Online Meeting Services
I need to share Powerpoint presentations with a large group of people. Which online meeting service should I use?
...Free Calls With Skype
My friend has gotten rid of his landline phone in favor if something called Skype. He claims he can make free calls all over the world. What exactly is Skype, is it really free, and is it legal?
...What is Internet Telephony?
Seems like everybody, and everything, is getting connected to the Internet. Have you heard about Internet Telephony? If you have high- speed Internet service, you may be able to save on telephone charges by connecting the phone to your modem instead of the phone company's wall jack. Read on to learn more about using the Internet to make phone calls.
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