Things to do when you lose your SIM?

There are times when you unintentionally lose your phone resulting in the loss of your SIM card, you might just lose your SIM card just like that or you might happen to damage your SIM while inserting it or taking it out too. Today we have for you some tips to help you which can come in handy when you lose your SIM.

• Call your customer care and tell them about your loss of SIM card so that they can block it.
• If you have damaged it, go to your operator’s store, deposit your old SIM alongside your ID proof and apply for a new one.
• If you have lost it with your phone, you need to file a report at your local police station and submit the copy of the FIR along with the identity proof at the operator’s store.
• You need to carry your original proof when you go to collect the replacement SIM card.

It usually takes a couple of hours to block a SIM card. You need to pay a nominal fees to get a replacement SIM and all your previous services will be restored on the new SIM card.

There you go, you can undertake the following steps in case you lose/damage your SIM card. Let me know if you have any other queries.

Tc & Be Safe :)

#lostsim

#gotoarif

How to enable the OK, Google hotword from all screens (rooted KitKat only)

Last week Google rolled out an update to its Search app that brought an awesome piece of functionality – the ability to use the “OK, Google” hotword from any screen, without having to switch to Google Now first.

Unfortunately, Google seems to be enabling the feature on a per-user basis, meaning that you may not be able to activate it, even if you’re on the latest version of the Search app, which is 3.5.15. Also, Google appears to have slowed or possibly even halted the rollout of the feature, leaving many anxious users high and dry.

If you can’t wait to use voice commands from anywhere in the phone, there’s a relatively simple way to activate it manually.Be warned that the method requires KitKat, root access, and you can’t use it on the L release.

The method uses a special app called UnleashTheGoogle, which activates the Debug options in the Search app. You will need the latest versions of Search and Play Services installed.

Here are the steps:

• Install UnleashTheGoogle and grant it Superuser access.
• Force stop Google Search.
• In Search settings, access the “Config Flags” option from the new “Dogfood” section
• In the list of flags, find the “e300_voice_everywhere” and “enable e300” flags and set both of them to ON.
• In the same list of flags, select the “speaker_id_supported_locales” and in the dialog enter “en-US” and then tap OK.
• Scroll down and select “Save Config Settings”. You should now be able to activate the feature.
• In Search settings, select Voice, then “OK, Google Detection”, then check the “From any screen” option. This will launch a one-time training process that will allow the app to recognize your voice. Accept the terms and you are good to go.

If you want to undo the changes, you can uninstall the updates to the Search app from the App Info screen.

Tc & Be Safe :)


#google #Internet


#gotoarif

Which International Call Service To Use? Skype Out vs Nimbuzz Out vs Viber Out

When it comes to making international calls, let’s agree that telcos have really expensive calling rates.
One of the option is to use the voice over IP solutions, however, it requires a lot of planning from both the parties — from setting up a time to actually checking whether your mic is working. Hangouts on Android can actually solve a bunch of these issues if it also allowed one to just initiate a voice call instead of a video call.
I have compared three services that allows you make calls from your desktop or smartphone app to anyone with a cell phone or PSTN phone.

*Skype mentions that there might be additional connection fees applicable / ~ really variable rates

Couple of observations:

1. There’s no clear cut winner when it comes to making international calls. That is, if you want to make calls to multiple destination and want to enjoy the best price, you’ll have to keep switching between the apps
2. In all the countries that I looked for, Skype turned out to the costliest. Besides that, Skype offers way too many options to the consumers and thus confusing them. Almost every plan has some sort of conditions attached to it
3. Viber Out seems to be providing consistently best plans for most of the countries. If you have to buy credits from just one country, you cannot go wrong with Viber

Obviously, the trick here is to research on various services and pick up the best on that suits you. However, if you need to call up multiple destination and don’t want to bother with buying credits from different services, Viber Out would be the clear cut choice.


So which international calling service are you using?

Tc & Be Safe :)


#Voip #Internet


#gotoarif

How To Make Free Phone Calls On Android

The era of using actual land line telephones have all but come to an end. These days if you don’t have a mobile phone then you are considered old school. However, we are getting closer and closer to a day when making phone calls won’t cost us any money and they take place solely on data connections instead of wireless phone signals. Some people are already researching how to do just that and that is likely why you’re here. So in this list we’ll take a look at the nine best free Android apps to make free calls on Android!

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Facebook Messenger

[Price: Free]
First on list is Facebook Messenger. Facebook has only recently allowed free calls on its messenger service but so far it has been rather successful. Many people may not like Facebook these days and may be looking for ways to get rid of it. However, Facebook has one undeniable advantage of being as ubiquitous of a service as you can get. Since most of these apps require that both parties have the same application in order to make phone calls (i.e. both parties much have Facebook Messenger to make free calls), that makes Facebook Messenger an above average option since it’s more likely that your friends already use Facebook.

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KakaoTalk: Free Calls & Texts

[Price: Free]
KakaoTalk is very popular albeit mostly for people not in North America. Much like the others on this list, you can text and call people for free. KakaoTalk also includes group calls which can be a good option for those who frequently require calling multiple people at once. Another good feature of KakaoTalk is multi-platform support. So if you have friends with iOS devices, Blackberry devices, or Windows Phone, you can still make free calls as long as you both use KakaoTalk.

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LINE: Free Calls & Messages

[Price: Free]
Line is another popular option to make free calls on Android. It currently sports over 400 million users worldwide and contains a lot of nifty features. One of which is free phone calls to other Line users. You can call non-Line users but there is a small fee (which isn’t unusual for these apps). It also features text messaging and group texting. Like KakaoTalk, Line is also has multi-platform support for most mobile operating systems and PC which is always nice to have in case your friends or relatives don’t use Android.

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magicApp by magicJack

[Price: Free]
This is one of the more unique apps on the list in that magicApp by magicJack actually does allow you call non-magicApp users for free. However, there are regional restrictions. If you live in the US or Canada, you can make free calls to just about anyone. If you’re outside of the US or Canada or you’re calling someone outside of the US or Canada without magicApp, then you must pay a fee like usual. The exception, of course, is that if both parties have magicApp, all calls are still free. Also unlike most apps on this list, magicApp can only be used for phone calls. So if you just need an app for calling, this is a good way to go. If you need something that includes texting too, then this won’t be a full solution.

Nimbuzz Messenger / Free Calls

[Price: Free]
Nimbuzz has been around for a long time and rightfully so. It has all of the features that most of these other apps have and it still works rather well. As per the norm you can voice call other Nimbuzz users free of charge and the service boasts HD calling service which is a plus since a lot of these apps do not have the best voice quality when calling. Of course, your mileage may very. You can also do the usual stuff like use stickers, group chat, text chat, and others.

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Skype – free IM & video calls

[Price: Free]
The venerable Skype also fits into this category. Most people already know what Skype can do so we’ll keep this one short. You can make free Skype calls to anyone who has Skype and non-Skype numbers require a small fee. It’s on most mobile operating systems and computer operating systems (including Linux) so it’s one of the best solutions when it comes to cross platform use. Also included are free group, video, and text chats should you need those. It’s a reliable and highly popular service and much like Facebook Messenger, there’s a good chance people you know already use Skype or at least have it installed.

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Tango Messenger, Video & Calls

[Price: Free]Tango used to be a much more popular application a couple of years ago, but it remains a pretty decent option for free calls today. With Tango you can get free calls to other Tango users as well as the standard texting and group messages. It also has cross platform support and video chatting if you like those features. Tango also goes the extra mile with things like built in games that you can challenge friends to if you’re bored. Admittedly, it’s not an exciting addition but it’s definitely something you won’t find in other apps on this list.

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Viber

[Price: Free]
When this list was first written, Viber was just coming out on Android and it has made quite the splash since then. With over 200 million users, Viber is one of the most widely used free call solutions on the list. As usual, you have to be calling other Viber users for it to be free. You can also use it for text and group messaging. Viber is a little more simple than many of the other apps but it gets the job done. There is also cross platform support should you need it!

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Yahoo Messenger (and you’ll need this plugin)

[Price: Free]Last up is Yahoo Messenger. Yahoo Messenger is a weird case because it’s the only app that requires a plugin in order to make voice calls. However, with the plugin, it still does make voice calls. Without the plugin, Yahoo Messenger is just a text messaging service. With the plugin you’ll also get voice and video calling. It has a few more issues than most of these but given how Yahoo has been with updating and re-imagining their applications it’s only a matter of time before this becomes a top tier option. As it stands, it’s still a good option but beware of the bugs.

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Wrap up


Unfortunately, most of these applications have the same issue in that they only deliver free calls if both parties are using the same app. So if you have Skype, you can make phone calls to anyone but it’s only free if the other person is using Skype as well. This presents a unique paradox in that these apps are all not technically 100% free but they are free if you follow the rules. For now, there aren't many reliable services that call landlines that are free. For now, your best bet is to use these and talk your friends and family into using them too. One day, we’ll all be doing it anyway! As usual if i missed a great app, let me know in the comments below.



Tc & Be Safe :)


#Android #Freecall


#gotoarif

4 Places You Should Never Swipe Your Debit Card

With debit card fraud becoming more and more rampant, you can never be too careful . Although a debit card is useful in maintaining your spending (you can only spend as much as your account balance), it can also make you vulnerable. For this reason we share four places where you should never use your debit card:


#1) Online purchases. This is number one for a reason. More debit card fraud happens online more than any other place. Even more than hackers accessing your information, you just don't know who is handling your information during the entire transaction process. Your debit card number can be stolen during numerous points and, what’s worst, you may not know you’ve been hacked for weeks.

#2) At pay-at-the-pump gas stations and ATM machines not operated by a bank. These terminals are vulnerable to being outfitted with illegal “skimming” devices that can capture your information. With minimal supervision, anyone can install these skimmers or pinpoint cameras.

#3) On big-ticket items. Unlike your debit card, most credit card companies provide an extended warranty on merchandise. If in fact you find something wrong after the manufacturer’s normal warranty period has expired, you are covered.

#4) Restaurants. Once that debit card leaves your supervision it is hard to say what information might be stolen. It takes only one minute to copy down the pertinent card information. Also, customer payment information is often kept by the restaurant allowing access to your information later.

So what makes credit cards safer than debit cards? I can lose my credit card just as easy as my debit card, so if both can be stolen, what are the main advantages of using a credit card over a debit card:

Credit cards provide an extra layer of protection since your money isn't withdrawn directly from your bank account. If your debit card were stolen and your bank account drained, you are placed in a difficult position in paying bills or meeting other financial obligations. This, of course, shreds your credit score. Fortunately, you can dispute a fraudulent charge on your credit card before the actual money is withdrawn from your bank account.

Any losses from an unauthorized charge to your credit card will never exceed $50 if you report within the specified time limit. Several institutions issuing credit cards will often waive the charge when asked. If your debit card were to go missing and you called the bank within two business days, then you’d likely pay $50 for the fraudulent charges. However, if you were to wait beyond two day before informing your bank about the missing card, you could be responsible for up to $500. And lastly, if you fail to report the fraudulent transaction within 60 days, you could find yourself responsible for the entire amount.

If you insist on using your debit card, be sure to review your statements regularly and ask inquire about the fraud protection services your bank provides. Certain banks will offer additional protection services like a photo ID on your debit card in an effort to prevent misuse.

Tc & Be Safe :)

#Creditcard #Debitcard 

#gotoarif

The Struggle to find a perfect 3G Operator in Mumbai

Trying to find the best 3G operator is like trying to find Nirvana. More so when the price war between the operators have ended and there’s little or no difference in the quality of service these carriers offer.

I have been dependent on Vodafone’s 3G service in Mumbai circle for some time. However, it’s getting frustrating when it switches to edge while commuting in local trains where I spend more or less 2 hours a day. Now I don’t mind if the speed lowers to edge, but the Edge connection on Vodafone is such that it literally takes 10 minutes to just open up a page, which is again very frustrating. 

Hence, I recently decided to make a switch. Over the last few quarters, we have seen heck loads of consolidation in the telecom market making it easier for carriers to offer little to nothing innovation when it comes to pricing. I tried to collect and analyze 1GB 3G data plans in Mumbai offered by all the telecom operators in Mumbai circle.

Turns out:

1. Most of the operators offer same rates for 1GB 3G, be it postpaid or prepaid.
2. Only RCOM seems to offer somewhat inexpensive 3G data.
3. While all operators offer similar 3G tariff on both, prepaid & postpaid connections, Idea seems to punish postpaid customers. Quite idiotic!
4. MTNL does it right by favoring its postpaid users who are committed to them for a longer.

Here’s how I eliminated options:

1. I've previously had a very horrible experience where Airtel charged me outrageous amount of money accidentally clicking on banner ads on my touchscreen mobile. Considering Airtel again was out of question as it tries in engage in unethical tactics to charge users.
2. I was previously with Idea for few months, until DoT decided that carriers shouldn’t be allowed to share their 3G network among themselves. At that time Ideas was sharing Vodafone’s 3G data service to offer to its users. While I’m not aware of whether it still share’s Vodafone’s 3G service, but my gut feeling says that it does, which means I would be getting back on Vodafone’s network.
3. I eliminated MTNL for the sole reason that I have to visit MTNL’s office to a SIM card, and I wanted some quick process to get a new SIM.

Do share which carrier you are using for 3G data in Mumbai.

Tc & Be Safe :)

#3g #Operator

#gotoarif

How Recharging and Paying Bills Online help you Save Money? My Analysis

On a daily basis many of us worry about increasing costs and mobile tariffs are not an exception here. While we can continue to talk or rather rant about service providers not keeping up their quality even after increasing tariffs significantly, it is also possible to reduce the price hike burden on our pockets. I would be sharing some tips along with few of my own experiences on how one can save money when it comes to maintaining a communication vehicle – cellular phone, landline phone, internet etc.

Online Recharge/Bill Pay Advantage

The best way to save money would be to use different online avenues available. Online options offer significant benefits to anyone who wants to save money. When it comes to online recharge, an end user, in addition to service provider’s websites, can go with third party websites like Paytm.

Service Provider

1. Majority of service providers offer exclusive benefits for users recharging or paying bills through their portal. For instance,
   • BSNL provides reward points for paying bills online and additional points if you have opted for ebills. These points can be redeemed for free call units.
   • Airtel offers web exclusive offers like full talk value and allows users to pick coupons that can be used for online shopping.
2. Certain service providers may even track your usage/recharge pattern and offer you surprise benefits. Airtel showcases such an option in their recharge portal.

Though official operator recharge portals have some things to offer, it is the third party websites which provide real value to consumers.

Third Party Websites

1. Shopping Coupons: Online recharge portals have been always offering coupons which can be used for online or offline shopping. While some providers charge a flat handling fee for coupons many offer several free coupons and paid coupons at nominal price. I would suggest picking free coupons anytime and paid coupons only if you are sure that you will be using them within the last date mentioned there. On the other hand, you can also check a recharge portal for discount coupons and recharge your phone for a nominal amount when you plan to buy something! This specifically holds good when you don’t find coupon codes for certain portals elsewhere. Eg. You cannot get discount coupons for Flipkart, but you can of course earn some Paytm cash!
2. Cashback: Cashback offers are common on special days and often form the prize for contests. One of the best offers I got so far was the 2013 offer from Paytm in December 2012. For a deposit of Rs. 2013 in Paytm cash, users were rewarded with Rs. 2500. Paytm had to revise the offer after few hours due to an overwhelming response (they gave Rs. 2100 instead of Rs. 2500 for those who joined later). Now that is the power of great offers and proves it is wise to be an early adopter! While we would not encourage social media spamming contests (which require you to follow the handle and tweet several hundred times with hashtags), contests can also held in a nice way – like first 100 users who respond or the best tweet and so on. Speaking about personal experience, just by using Paytm I managed to earn at least Rs. 200 – Rs. 500 per year in cashback. This may look like a small amount, but I am a firm believer in A Rupee Saved is Rupee Earned. My latest earning was through PaytmValentine’s day offer – a Rs. 100 cashback.
3. Welcome back offers: As much as sites want to gain users they also like to retain them. This prompts them to offer ‘Welcome Back’ coupons. You can expect welcome back coupons from leading recharge portals like Freecharge when you don’t use the portal for few months. The welcome back offer can be anything like 5 – 15% discount or some cashback.
4. Value additions: Recharge sites like Paytm offer recharge through IVR or SMS (Pre-requisite: Balance must be available in secure Paytm Cash account). This will be your best companion if you are away from your PC and have no access to a retail outlet.

Takeaway: Study the different recharge options available and choose that suits your needs.  Remember to maximize the earnings. To illustrate, take the example of Paytm Valentine’s day offer: The condition was 14% cashback subject to a maximum of Rs. 100 and the minimum recharge must be Rs. 300. Now 14% of Rs. 300 is only Rs. 42. A quick calculation revealed that I need to recharge for at least Rs. 715 to get full Rs. 100 cashback. To my luck there was a full talk value of Rs. 750offer from BSNL and I managed to get it. Incase of Paytm, most of the times, adding to Paytm cash counts as a transaction and hence if you do not need to recharge your number, just add some Paytm cash. After all no bank gives you so much interest for such a short time!

Never miss a full talk value offer

Some service providers do not offer full talk value on recharges all the time. Take the case of BSNL, such offers come up mainly during festivals. In such situations, we would suggest you togo for high value recharges – say Rs. 1000 and above. BSNL also provides 10% extra for recharges above Rs. 1000 at such times. In such a case Rs. 1000 becomes Rs. 1100. Now one might argue, I don’t spend Rs. 1000 on calling. Fine, even I don’t.  But you can use the balance to activate STVs. STV activations by SMS works out to be cheaper!

Keep an eye on what your Bank Offers

Major private banks like ICICI always have special offers on recharges. Sometimes they are valid for first time users, sometimes for anyone. You can avail them at least once in that case. Same holds good for many other banks. To make mobile apps popular banks often offer exclusive app offers.

When doing a recharge or paying a bill make it a point to use the card which gives you maximum reward points. Note that reward points are no longer a feature on credit cards – they come on debit cards and net banking usage too. These reward points can be redeemed later at some stage!

Paying in Advance for Long Duration

If you have a reliable service provider for Internet or Landline telephone, you can opt to pay the rent in advance for longer duration. Service providers like BSNL, Beam Fiber allow up to 3 years and 2 years advance payment respectively. BSNL waives off one month’s rent for one year’s advance payment and Beam Fiber works out to be significantly cheaper than paying monthly.Though the amount looks huge at once, in most of the cases you will be saving a princely amount. So do the math!

To Readers

What are your money saving tips on recharges or bill payments? Are you still using paper recharge coupons or visit corner shops to get recharge done? Let me know through comments!

Disclosure: I have been a happy Paytm user ever since they started their services!

Image Credits: Paytm

Tc & Be Safe :)

#Onlinerecharge #paybills

#gotoarif