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9 Ways to Fix Telegram Links Not Working & Opening [Solved]

How to / January 2, 2024

When you click on a Telegram link and realise that the website cannot be reached, it seems like your Telegram link is not working, and your web browser is not successfully opening the link. The web browser is unresponding at times.

What could be the issue/s here?

There are many reasons why this is happening. In this article, we will look at each and every issue to rectify and troubleshoot it.

Table Of Contents

What to do when Telegram links do not open and not working

What to do when Telegram links do not open and not working

Here are the nine (9) ways you can try to rectify your problem.

1. Copy the link onto another web browser

A quick and easy way is to copy the Telegram link and paste it into your web browser to open it.

You can do this on the mobile or desktop version of Telegram. To do this;

Long-press the Telegram link and select <Copy>.

Paste it on any web browser of your choice. If it does not work, try other web browsers.

2. Open the link using another Telegram account

This may happen if you are being removed or banned from a particular group or channel.

To resolve this, use another Telegram account to open the link if you have a spare phone. You may want to join back the Group or Channel.

3. Use a VPN

Sometimes the external link is geo-restricted or belongs to a blocked site in your country. Therefore, you cannot view the website without finding ways to bypass it.

To bypass this, you need to use an anonymous privacy VPN service.

Choose the following reliable VPN services;

ProtonVPN (free plan available for iOS, Android, Windows & macOS)
NordVPN (most number of servers in different countries)
IPVanish (supports all platforms, routers, and TVs)

Connect yourself to a foreign VPN country than the one you reside in, and you can now view the Telegram link successfully.

A reliable VPN service can also be helpful in many ways, such as watching Netflix using a Canadian or U.S. VPN service where more movies and shows are available.

Also, check if you reside in a country where Telegram is banned, such as Pakistan, India, and China.

4. Use the Telegram desktop version

Another workaround you can do is to use the desktop web version of Telegram and try to open the links from there.

You would need a Windows or Mac computer and use it to test your links. To do this;

Go to Telegram Web
Open your Telegram app (from your phone)
Go to Settings > Devices > Link Desktop Device
Login via the QR code (from your phone) or use your phone number (the one registered to your Telegram account)

5. Clear Cache and Data

clear-telegram-cache-local-database-on-android

Sometimes your Telegram app may get congested with cache files and contain lots of files due to attachments. Clearing your Telegram cache and data may help the app receive a refreshing start.

On Android > Open Telegram app> Tap on the Menu on the top left > Select Settings > Select Data and Storage > Select Storage Usage > Click on Clear Telegram Cache and Clear Local Database.

On iPhone > Open Telegram app > Go to Settings > Select Data and Storage > Select Storage Usage > Click on clear Telegram cache.

6. Check the Telegram Server

Sometimes when you cannot open links in Telegram, the reason could be due to Telegram’s servers. In other words, the fault lies in the link (i.e. the website).

You can use Downdetector to check the current status of the Telegram app.

The image above shows that Telegram is working correctly at the moment.

Suppose you encounter a message that Telegram is experiencing some connection difficulty. In that case, it is best to wait for Telegram to resolve its problems and check Downdetector after a while to see if the issue has been resolved.

7. Check Link Server

Sometimes the issue lies in the website link itself. For example, there is a possibility that the website server is down, resulting in Telegram not being unable to open the website link.

You can use IsItDownRightNow to check any website for any issues of connectivity.

isitdownrightnow-website-check-issues-down

It cannot be resolved on your end if it is a server-related issue. Therefore the best thing to do is to wait it out.

8. Check your Internet connectivity

Use a combination of your mobile data and Wi-Fi connection to test the Telegram link.

Check your Internet and router configurations to see if everything is working fine.

Use another device to connect to the Wi-Fi network and test the external link to see if it works.

9. Restart your Device

Whether you are using the mobile or desktop version of Telegram, sometimes the easiest way is often the easiest.

Restart your device and try opening the link again.

9 Ways to Fix Telegram Links Not Working & Opening [Solved] Read More »

5 Ways to Scan and Read QR Codes using Mac [MacBook Pro, Air]

How to / January 2, 2024

You can use your Macbook to scan and read QR codes as our mobile phones do. In addition, you can install specific macOS applications to use Mac’s built-in webcam camera to capture and scan QR codes and display the contents.

What is a QR code?

A QR Code is a matrix code, also known as a two-dimensional bar code, developed in 1994 by the Japanese company Denso-Wave.

Because the creators intended for the code’s contents to be decoded rapidly, the name “QR” is derived from “Quick Response.” However, QR Codes are now utilized in a much broader context, such as concealing website URLs, email addresses and many more.

Table Of Contents

What is a QR code?
How to Scan and Read QR Codes using a Macbook?

How to Scan and Read QR Codes using a Macbook?

Here are the five (5) ways to do so.

1. QR Journal

QR Journal is a free tool that lets users scan their QR code images (e.g. from emails) and visit the website using their web browser.

If your computer has an iSight-compatible camera, it can also read the QR code. Just bring the QR code to the front camera of your Macbook for it to scan.

Some of the features include;

Importing of files/images to scan and read
Generating of own QR codes
Support for AppleScript to start scanning and triggering after a code has been scanned

2. QR Reader Mac

QR Reader Mac is an Applescript that reads QR codes from the computer screen, extracts the URLs, and automatically opens them in your web browser.

It is hosted as a Github project and recently has Apple M1 chip support for newer Macbooks.

Prerequisites: You need to install the open-source bar code reader script called ZBar. You can install it with the following;

brew install zbar

Go to the GitHub page, select <Code>, and click <Download ZIP>. Once downloaded, double-click to install.

Now all you need to do is to use your mouse to select the shape of the QR code you want to scan, and your web browser will open the URL site.

3. Code Reader – QR Scanner

Code Reader can be found in the Apple App Store, and it is used to scan, generate and share QR codes with anyone.

It can scan codes with encoded text, links, contacts, emails, locations, etc.

When scanning QR codes using this app, web browsers will automatically open if it is a URL link. If it is an email address, it will open your email client, allowing you to send an email quickly.

Some of the app’s features include;

Read, display, and save multiple codes at the same time
Option to always use HTTPS to avoid insecure websites
Generate colored barcodes
Read QR codes using image files

4. QuickMark – QR Code Reader

QuickMark is a Mac-based barcode reader that lets you automatically scan and generate Quick Code, QR Code, and Data Matrix barcode formats.

Some of the main features include;

Scanning barcodes and QR codes using the built-in webcam
Decoding of 2D barcodes on the screen with Transparent Mode
Decoding 2D barcodes from files or using drag-and-drop
Create your own 2D barcodes
Supports Structured Append QR Codes

5. QR Code Decoder – [Online]

This is an online QR code decoder and generating service. All you need to do is upload your QR code image file online, which will automatically show you the text data within the code.

You can also use this service to generate your own QR code. Again, this is no need for any web browser plugins or extensions.

Write your own text and click <Generate>. Your personalized QR code image will be shown on the right, and you can right-click to save the image.

5 Ways to Scan and Read QR Codes using Mac [MacBook Pro, Air] Read More »

featured-image-screenshot-record-protected-videos

5 Ways To Screen Record Protected Apps [Fix Black Screen]

How to / January 2, 2024

Are you trying to perform a screen capture from a restricted app, and all you got from your video recordings was a black screen?

And you realised you could not perform screenshots as well?

This article will explain the various ways to bypass these restrictions on these blocked & protected apps so that you can perform screen recording.

Table Of Contents

Reasons for Restricting
How to Screen Record Protected Apps?
Method 1: Install Restricted App on Virtual Space
Method 2: Screen Mirroring
Method 3: Using the Zoom app Screen-Sharing feature
Method 4: Using Screen Recorder apps (for non-rooted)
Method 5: Using Screen Recorder apps (for rooted phones)
Conclusion

Reasons for Restricting

Sometimes, app developers design their apps specifically so that it does not allow screen recording. As a result, any form of screen capture, screenshot or screen recording will be blocked.

This is a security feature, and app developers will mark the application as sensitive and secure. In most circumstances, they do not want their content to be leaked.

The reason for this prevention is likely due to the content type the app contains.

Some examples are

apps showing payment transactions;
apps showing sensitive information that needs to be protected.
apps containing paid course content
copyrighted materials, e.g. Netflix
DRM-protected video streams

However, there are times when you would want to record the screen for various reasons, e.g. for instructional sharing with someone, technical troubleshooting and others.

How to Screen Record Protected Apps?

Below are the five (5) methods you can use to bypass and unblock the restrictions;

Method 1: Install Restricted App on Virtual Space

We use this proven and tested method to capture screen recordings on our restricted apps. This method is also the fastest way to do so.

Step 1: Download and install DisableFlagSecure on your phone. This allows you to take screenshots and screen recordings on restricted apps. This is the latest version and should work on most mobile devices. If somehow this is not working for you, you can try installing the older version.

Step 2: Find and install the latest version of the Xposed Tai-Chi APK on your phone. This allows you to run APKs (android app files) in virtual spaces as plugins, thus allowing actions such as screen recording.

Step 3: Open the Tai-Chi app, select <Manage Modules> and tick the checkbox of <DisableFlagSecure>.

Step 4: On the Tai-Chi menu, select <Create app> and choose the app you wish to make a screenshot or screen recording.

Step 5: Tai-Chi app will uninstall the original app automatically. Once done, Tai-Chi will display the wording that says <Ready to install> next to your restricted app, and you must click on it to begin your installation process.

Step 6: Now, you can start your restricted app and use any of your favourite screen recorder apps to capture the screen you need.

Method 2: Screen Mirroring

This is about copying one screen to another screen. There are two (2) ways to do so.

Phone-to-Phone

Screen mirroring is the technology that reflects (mirrors) your screen from one device to another. For this method, we will need to perform screen mirroring from phone A to phone B.

Both devices must install the same screencasting application and be connected to the same network, e.g. in the same home Wi-Fi.

You can use any of these three (3) apps below;

LetsView (iOS / Android)
ApowerMirror (iOS)
AirMirror (iOS / Android)

Phone-to-Windows

In Windows 10, an in-built feature called the <Connect> app will enable screen mirroring from your phone to your Windows machine. With that, you can then use any recording tool to record your screen.

To begin, make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Next, search for the word “Connect” using Windows Search to find the <Connect> app. Finally, click on <Projecting to this PC>.

Depending on the make & model of your phone, search for the word “Wireless Projection” or “Cast” and enable it. You should be able to detect your PC’s name and connect to it.

On Windows 10, you will receive a prompt to confirm the connection. Click “OK“.

Use any screen recording software for Windows 10 devices, such as RecMaster, to start your screen capturing.

Method 3: Using the Zoom app Screen-Sharing feature

Zoom allows you to share your entire desktop or phone screen or even a portion of your screen with another device. This means you can perform screen recording on your mirrored device.

How to start Zoom screen sharing?

For iOS, find the button in your Zoom meeting controls called <Share Content>.
For Android, Windows, Mac & Linux, it is named <Share Screen>.

Once successfully cast onto another device, use any screen recording tool to capture the screenshot or record a screen video.

Method 4: Using Screen Recorder apps (for non-rooted)

Depending on the restricted app you want to unblock, sometimes the solution can be a straightforward one.

It may boil down to just the kind of screenshot apps you should be using instead.

You can try any of these highly-rated and reliable desktop screen recorders below;

Bandicam Screen Recorder

Bandicam Screen Recorder serves as a highly efficient tool for capturing screen activity. It offers the capability to record videos of the entire screen or designated sections, while simultaneously providing the functionality for taking screenshots via designated hotkeys.

This software proves invaluable for a range of applications, such as documenting in-game experiences, elucidating technical issues, or preserving specific slides from presentations.

Method 5: Using Screen Recorder apps (for rooted phones)

If you have a rooted Android phone, you can definitely capture screenshots and record screens and system audio on your device.

You should download using any of these apps that require rooted privileges on Android.

Conclusion

Try any of the methods stated above, and you will be able to fix your problem.

Method 1 is highly recommended to be safe as we have tested and proven it to work.

Use Method 5 only on a spare phone device, as it requires rooting. Do not attempt to root your Android phone if you do not know what you are doing. Rooting will void the phone manufacturer’s warranty.

Recommendations (Tested & Proven)

To bypass internet censorship, blocked sites, and browse with anonymity., only choose the following reliable VPN services;

NordVPN (Has the most number of servers, over 5000+, in 60 countries to choose from. Uses a unique Onion Over VPN feature to mask your online traffic for maximum anonymity.)
Surfshark VPN (One of the few providers that allow unlimited device connections with just a single subscription. You can connect all your devices with no logs policy)
IPVanish (Supports all platforms, routers, and TV. Uses SOCKS5 web proxy feature for faster anonymous connection speed)

For ease of use, simplicity, and having the most competitive prices, only BUY your favourite crypto from;

* Bitfinex
* Coinbase
* Crypto.com
* Binance

Regardless of your country, either of the above-tested exchanges will work for you.
All the above accept payment methods such as credit/debit cards, bank transfers, Apple Pay, Google Pay and more.

5 Ways To Screen Record Protected Apps [Fix Black Screen] Read More »

Does Telegram Show Your Phone Number [And How to Hide It]

How to / January 2, 2024

With over 700 million+ users worldwide, Telegram is one of the most popular private messaging apps.

Each Telegram account is registered uniquely to one (1) mobile number. Therefore, you cannot register two (2) Telegram accounts with one number.

Telegram lets you add users by Username and contact number.

Unlike Whatsapp, where chats are initiated directly using your phone number, Telegram uses usernames for direct communication. Therefore, everyone can only see each other’s usernames (unless they already have your number in their address book).

The mobile number Telegram asks for during signup is only for registration and account recovery purposes.

There are several privacy questions about how our mobile numbers are used and how anonymous Telegram users are.

Will any Telegram user know my number? Or If someone can track you in Telegram?

Table Of Contents

If I Add Someone on Telegram, Will My Phone Number Be Revealed?
How Can I Hide My Mobile Number in Telegram?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If I Add Someone on Telegram, Will My Phone Number Be Revealed?

When you register for a new Telegram account, you will provide your mobile number for SMS verification.

Once verified, the default settings in the Telegram app allow your phone contacts (i.e., address book) to see your actual phone number when communicating using Telegram chats.

In short, only your ‘friends’ who have your number stored in their address book can see your number.

This is done by syncing your phone contacts with Telegram.

To prevent this, you should hide your mobile number under Telegram Settings (see below for how to do so).

Once hidden, any future users you added to Telegram will not be able to see your phone contacts anymore.

In addition to hiding your number, you should ensure that your Profile name and Username does not reveal your real identity. You can change the anytime in Settings.

How Can I Hide My Mobile Number in Telegram?

You must configure two (2) options to hide your number from anyone using Telegram.

Here’s how to do it.

1. Set Privacy on Phone Number

telegram-configure-phone-number-privacy-hide

Open the Telegram app and go to <Settings>.
Click <Privacy and Security>
Select <Nobody> for the option “Who can see my phone number?”
Select <My Contacts> for the option “Who can find me by my number?”

In this way, no one can see your phone number in Telegram, and you decide who can search for you on Telegram based on who you kept in your contacts listing.

2. Delete Synced Contacts

telegram-hide-phone-number-delete-synced-contact

If you have been using Telegram before this, you need to remove synced contacts from your Telegram account.

Open the Telegram app and go to <Settings>
Click <Privacy and Security>
Click <Delete Synced Contacts> to remove your previously-synced contacts from seeing your phone number now.
Toggle OFF <Sync Contacts> to disable contact syncing from now onwards

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the common questions about Telegram privacy on mobile numbers.

If I add a contact on Telegram, will they know my number?

No. They will not be able to know if you are the only one adding their number.

For them to know your number, the other party needs to know your number and save it under their address book.

How to know if someone saved your number on Telegram?

If the other party registered for Telegram, you will be notified that this person has joined Telegram.

How to find hidden numbers in Telegram?

As mentioned earlier in this article, there is no way to know hidden numbers among Telegram users. You can only see their Profile name and Username.

Does Telegram Show Your Phone Number [And How to Hide It] Read More »

13 Ways to FIX WhatsApp Calls Disconnect & Dropping Problems

How to / January 2, 2024

WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps worldwide.

One of the main reasons why people choose WhatsApp over other messaging apps is because it has a calling feature.

However, it can be annoying if an important WhatsApp call drops or disconnects abruptly while you’re on it.

This problem is not unusual, and there are several potential causes.

This article will cover how to fix WhatsApp call drops and disconnections.

Table Of Contents

How to Fix WhatsApp Calls From Not Working, Disconnecting, and Dropping Frequently?

How to Fix WhatsApp Calls From Not Working, Disconnecting, and Dropping Frequently?

Here are the thirteen (13) ways to fix the issue.

1. Turn off Battery Saver mode

Turn off the battery saver mode on your device if you’re using it before making a WhatsApp call.

This mode may impact the app’s functionality and result in disconnected or dropped calls.

2. Turn off Bluetooth

Bluetooth may interfere with the Wi-Fi or cellular network signal, which is one factor that can make WhatsApp calls unreliable.

A good practice is to turn off your Bluetooth connection.

As a result, the device may struggle to maintain a stable internet connection, which can cause poor call quality or dropped calls.

Some smartphones also automatically switch to Bluetooth audio during calls, which may be problematic.

Call quality may suffer, and calls may be dropped if the Bluetooth connection is weak or unstable.

3. Check Router Settings

Your router’s security settings and firewall configurations can sometimes interfere with your internet connection and cause disruptions during WhatsApp calls.

Check your firewall configurations and ensure it is not too strict, as they may block legitimate connections, including those for WhatsApp calls.

4. Disable VPN

If you’re using a VPN service, disable it before making a WhatsApp call.

Although VPNs can unblock websites and circumvent geographical censorship, they can affect your internet connection and cause calls to drop or disconnect.

5. Check your Internet connection

You should check your internet connection when experiencing call drops on WhatsApp.

Make sure your internet connection is both reliable and quick.

You can use Ookla Speedtest or Google Fiber Speedtest to analyze your connection speed.

Using Wi-Fi, you can change networks or get nearer to the router.

6. Clear App Cache

Call drops can be avoided, and the performance of WhatsApp can be enhanced by clearing its cache.

Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp > Storage > Clear Cache on Android to clear the app cache.

7. Update WhatsApp

Make sure WhatsApp is running at the most recent version.

Call drops can be avoided by updating the app, which can fix bugs and improve performance.

8. Disable call forwarding

It’s possible for WhatsApp calls to disconnect or drop if call forwarding is enabled on your device.

Call forwarding should be disabled before making another attempt.

9. Switch to Wi-Fi calling

Try switching to Wi-Fi calling if you have call drops while using cellular data.

You can avoid call drops and increase the stability of your internet connection by doing this.

10. Reset network settings

Your internet connection may be the source of call drops on WhatsApp; resetting your network settings can help.

You can reset network settings by going to Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

11. Restart your device

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix issues with your device, including call drops on WhatsApp. Restart your device and try making a call again.

12. Reinstall WhatsApp

If none of the above solutions work, try reinstalling WhatsApp.

This will reset the app to its default settings and may fix any issues causing call drops.

13. Contact WhatsApp Support

Contact WhatsApp support if you’ve tried all of the fixes mentioned above but still have call drops on the app.

They might be able to offer more detailed troubleshooting instructions or refer the problem to their technical team.

13 Ways to FIX WhatsApp Calls Disconnect & Dropping Problems Read More »

temporary-virtual-mobile-number-receive-verification-code-otp

9 Ways to Receive SMS Verification Code From Virtual Numbers

Best of / January 2, 2024

A virtual number is an actual phone number without a physical SIM card. It is commonly installed as a desktop application and as a mobile app.

Virtual mobile numbers can be used for sending & receiving SMS text messages and making local & international calls.

Besides using virtual numbers for receiving SMS OTP codes, they can act as a secondary phone number (without a physical SIM) and can be used for other means, e.g., business, travel, online dating, etc.

Virtual numbers are commonly used to register for online services like WhatsApp, Telegram, or other chat apps.

Table Of Contents

How to Get Virtual Phone Numbers for Receiving SMS Verification Codes?

Here’s a quick summary of the most suitable apps based on your needs and preferences.

Best (FREE)	Best (PAID)
OnlineSIM (Free to try)	Hushed (Most affordable)
Quackr.io (Free)	Numero (Most number of countries to choose from)

Note that free virtual numbers are always used quickly whenever they are listed online for social media sites and email registration purposes.

Always consider getting a paid virtual number if you want a fresh unused one. These temporary numbers are affordable, and you can always extend their validity whenever possible.

How to Get Virtual Phone Numbers for Receiving SMS Verification Codes?

Here are the nine (9) ways to do so.

1. Hushed

hushed-virtual-mobile-temporary-number-receive-sms-verification-otp-code

Hushed is one of those apps that you can use to buy a prepaid mobile number online.

You can receive SMS verification codes (OTP), make calls, have custom voicemail greetings, call forwarding, and many other features.

You can get a single mobile number for as low as $1.99 for a limited number of days (e.g., 7 days)

Install the Hushed app on your mobile phone.
Choose the country of the mobile number you want, e.g, from Canada or the U.K.
Every purchased mobile number is renewable before the expiry date.
Payment methods include in-app purchases through PlayStore and AppStore, Bitcoin, and credit cards through the Hushed app portal.

Visit HUSHED

2. Numero

numero-virtual-mobile-number-secondary-app

Numero eSIM acts as a secondary mobile number for users to make cheap calls with the ability to send and receive SMS messages. In addition, you can use it to get SMS verification codes.

Users receive free calls anywhere when using Numero eSIM. This only applies to incoming calls.

You can make local and international calls at almost local rates.

You can choose virtual numbers from over 80+ countries and over 4000+ cities.

Make calls and receive SMS messages.
International WiFi calling at local rates with Local calling plans.
Voicemail and Call forwarding features
Privacy Caller-ID (hide your number) for local and international calls

Visit NUMERO

3. Talkroute

talkroute_virtual-number-receive-sms-verification-code

Talkroute is a virtual phone system suitable for businesses and individuals who are always on the move.

Users can work using their desktop computers, web browsers, and mobile devices to make & receive calls, manage SMS texts, and respond to voicemail messages.

Talkroute has a detailed history reporting feature that retrieves call data with various options (e.g., sort by a caller or specific mailbox).

Local, toll-free, 800, and vanity phone numbers
Hosting video meetings with video conferencing with up to 100 participants
Unlimited 3 or 4-digit direct dial extensions
Custom greetings and call recordings

Visit TALKROUTE

4. TextMagic

textmagic-virtual-number-receive-sms-verification-otp

TextMagic is an SMS text messaging marketing campaign software that packs several features, including the ability to send and receive SMS text messages online using its two-way chat features.

You can use that to receive SMS verification OTP codes for web services, such as registering for Gmail and signing up for social media sites.

One helpful feature is enabling users a quick and cost-effective way to send bulk (mass) messages anywhere in the world.

TextMagic has global SMS coverage with access to over 1,000 mobile networks across 190+ countries. With that, you can safely receive SMS messages from any country worldwide.

Choose virtual numbers from over 25+ countries for promotional campaigns, customer support, etc.

Send & receive SMS messages and MMS attachments.
Sub-accounts for team members with reporting and analytics features

Visit TEXTMAGIC

5. OnlineSIM

onlinesim-virtual-number-receive-sms-verification-code-otp

OnlineSIM is an online phone service that provides free virtual mobile numbers for users so they can have private registration on various sites, services, and platforms.

These online numbers are on short and long-term virtual number renting models.

The company has access to virtual numbers from over 90+ countries and more than 1 million numbers.

You can rent a number for as short as ten (10) minutes to an hour. In addition, you can extend the number’s validity or cancel it anytime.

You can use OnlineSIM to receive SMS verification codes by signing up for services such as Gmail, Facebook, Whatsapp, and many others.

Visit OnlineSIM

6. Quackr.io

Quackr is entirely free to use, with no signups required.

You can use Quackr as a secure temporary phone number instead of using your actual phone number on the Internet.

You can send & receive SMS text messages from the U.S., U.K., and 22 other countries using your virtual phone number.

The site updates and adds new temporary phone numbers every month.

You can use these temporary virtual numbers for setting up accounts on Facebook, WhatsApp, PayPal, Uber, Tencent, cryptocurrency exchanges & many more.

Visit QUACKR.io

7. SMSReceiveFree.com

SMSReceiveFree can get SMS text messages from all over the world. In addition, these virtual numbers can be used to verify and register for websites like Twitter and Google.

All messages and phone numbers are thrown away after seven (7) days.

Every month, new virtual phone numbers are added to the list.

Even if the sender is located in a different nation, these virtual mobile numbers can still receive messages from anywhere in the world.

Visit SMSReceiveFree

8. Anonymsms.com

AnonymSMS is a completely free online service that lets you receive SMS messages without entering your mobile or cell phone number.

These temporary numbers are based on a genuine SIM, and new virtual numbers are added daily.

In most cases, communications are received immediately. Hit the refresh button to get to it. After a while, all visible and utilized virtual numbers will become inactive, and you can choose another number to use.

Visit ANONYMSMS

9. TemporaryPhoneNumber

TemporaryPhoneNumber is a free service that allows you to use its virtual temporary phone numbers to receive SMS text messages anonymously online from anywhere in the world, regardless of your location.

TemporaryPhoneNumber is free to use without needing to pay any fees, and no need for user registration.

Incoming SMS messages are automatically refreshed on the page between 5 seconds to 60 seconds intervals.

Visit TemporaryPhoneNumber

9 Ways to Receive SMS Verification Code From Virtual Numbers Read More »

bypass-whatsapp-phone-verification-register-without-sim-number

3 Ways to Bypass WhatsApp SMS Verification Code [Without SIM]

How to / January 2, 2024

When registering for WhatsApp, you will be asked to provide a mandatory mobile number for account activation.

WhatsApp will send you a one-time password (OTP) via SMS text message to verify yourself.

Each WhatsApp account is tied to your unique mobile number during registration.

Sometimes you do not wish to use your personal mobile number, for example, to have privacy and to separate personal matters from work matters.

This article will focus on how to activate and bypass WhatsApp phone number restrictions without using your personal mobile number.

Table Of Contents

How to Register WhatsApp Without Using Your Personal Phone Number?

How to Register WhatsApp Without Using Your Personal Phone Number?

Here are the three (3) ways to do so.

Method 1. Use Voicemail

whatsapp-call-me-option-bypass-phone-verification

During registration, you provide WhatsApp with a virtual mobile number from Talkroute.

When asked to verify and enter the 6-digit SMS verification code, please select the option <Call me>.

WhatsApp will attempt to call you on the Talkroute number you provided.

You can either;

Pick up the phone call and listen to the verification code or,
WhatsApp’s automated system will leave you a voicemail with your code on it after the 5-minute countdown.

Talkroute is a virtual phone system suitable for businesses and individuals who are always on the move.

Users can work using their desktop computers, web browsers, and mobile devices to make & receive calls, manage SMS texts, and respond to voicemail messages.

Alternatively, if you can use a landline number or use a payphone if you know the number, you can provide that to WhatsApp and choose the <Call me> option to listen to the verification code.

Method 2: Use a Virtual Phone Number

You will be getting a virtual mobile number to register and activate WhatsApp.

You must install a secondary phone app on your mobile device and choose your temporary number from the available countries.

Here are some of the reliable virtual number apps you can consider;

Hushed

You can use Hushed to receive SMS verification codes (OTP), make calls, have custom voicemail greetings, call forwarding, and many other features.

You can get a single mobile number for as low as $1.99 for a limited number of days (e.g., 7 days)

Install the Hushed app on your mobile phone.
Choose the country of the mobile number you want, e.g., from Canada or the U.K.
Every purchased mobile number is renewable before the expiry date.

Numero eSIM

Numero eSIM acts as a secondary mobile number for users to make cheap calls with the ability to send and receive SMS messages. In addition, you can use it to get SMS verification codes for WhatsApp.

Users receive free incoming calls anywhere when using Numero eSIM.

You can choose virtual numbers from over 80+ countries and over 4000+ cities.

Make calls and receive SMS messages.
International WiFi calling at local rates with Local calling plans.
Voicemail and Call forwarding features
Privacy Caller-ID (hide your number) for local and international calls

Method 3: Receive SMS Code Online

Some websites offer ready-made virtual phone numbers so users can receive SMS messages and OTP codes by simply visiting their websites.

Below are some trusted websites where you can receive SMS messages and OTPs.

Quackr (free)
AnonymSMS (free)
OnlineSIM (Free to try, rent a virtual number per day)
TextMagic (Free to try, free incoming SMS, pay for only outgoing SMS)

Please note that mobile numbers on free sites usually run out quickly, and these sites do not offer new numbers frequently.

A more reliable method is to use a paid service. For example, TextMagic and OnlineSIM provide a dedicated virtual phone number for your SMS needs.

Keep in mind that WhatsApp may ask its users to verify their mobile numbers from time to time. As a result, consider renewing these virtual numbers if you intend to use the Whatsapp account for the long term.

3 Ways to Bypass WhatsApp SMS Verification Code [Without SIM] Read More »

Recover-Deleted-Chat-Messages-From-Signal-App

5 Ways to Retrieve Deleted Chat Messages From Signal App

How to / January 2, 2024

Users who value online privacy increasingly use Signal, a safe and private messaging app.

However, you might wonder if there is a way to recover important messages if you unintentionally deleted them from the app.

Using a third-party tool or restoring a backup are some techniques that could be used to recover deleted messages.

We’ll look at a few techniques in this article that you can use to get back deleted messages from the Signal app.

Table Of Contents

Can Deleted Signal Messages Be Recovered?

Can Deleted Signal Messages Be Recovered?

Here are the five (5) ways to retrieve deleted signal messages.

Method 1. Signal Chat backups

If you had previously enabled chat backups in Signal, you could restore a backup containing your old Signal conversations.

To check if you have enabled Signal chat backups;

Open the Signal app
Go to <Settings> and click <Chats>
Ensure you see <Enabled> under the <Chat backups> option.

To restore your old Signal conversation;

Install a new copy of Signal
Select <Restore from backup> during installation.
Point to the local chat backup file to restore.

The backup file is a BIN file with a filename format like this “signal-yyyy-mm-dd-hh-mm-ss.backup”.

Method 2. The Person You are Chatting With

Sometimes the fastest way is to approach the person/s you are communicating with to ask if they can re-send the file (image or video) or even the entire message to you.

If this is a Group or Channel, plenty of people can assist you in forwarding the lost message, image, or video you wanted.

Unless you intend to do this discreetly, this method is the most straightforward solution.

Method 3. Linked Devices

Signal has a feature called “linked devices.” It refers to extra devices connected to a user’s Signal account and can access messages and other account data.

This is very useful for users who want to access their Signal account on several devices, such as smartphones and tablets.

To recover deleted messages, you can use this feature to see all messages and transfer them between devices without losing their chat history or other account information.

Method 4. Use of Data Recovery Tools on SD Card

This method only works for Android devices.

If your signal messages, images, and videos are stored on an external microSD card, retrieving them back using third-party data recovery software such as Recuva is possible.

For iOS devices, you can consider using Stellar iPhone Data Recovery and iMyFone D-Back for iOS.

For Android devices, you can use EaseUS MobiSaver for Android and TenorShare for Android.

Method 5. Use of Forensic Tools on Phone

If you can afford or have access to mobile forensics software tools, this method is the best for you.

It would be best if you considered the following tools;

These companies invested heavily in the research & development (R&D) of gaining access to modern-day phones, developing support for thousands of mobile apps, recovering lost messages and files, and displaying them nicely in an intuitive interface for their users.

5 Ways to Retrieve Deleted Chat Messages From Signal App Read More »

Proxy-Server-Refused-Connection_tor-browser-android

5 Ways to FIX “Proxy Server Refused Connection” in Android

How to / January 2, 2024

When using the Tails OS or the Tor web browser on your Android mobile device, you encounter an error message saying “Proxy Server Refused Connection“.

There are several ways to troubleshoot, rectify and fix this problem.

Although your Android device is unlikely to be configured for any proxy server, this error is a common one that many will encounter.

Table Of Contents

How to FIX the "Proxy Server Refused Connection" error when using the Tor browser on Android
Summary

How to FIX the “Proxy Server Refused Connection” error when using the Tor browser on Android

Here are the seven (7) ways you can use to solve this problem.

1. Configure Tor Bridges

Make sure you are using the obfs4 bridge for your Tor browser.

Follow the steps below;

Open the Tor browser from your phone
Go to <Settings> on the top-right
Select <Config Bridge>
Toggle ON <Use a Bridge>
Select <obfs4>
Check again if the Tor browser is connected now

tor-web-browser-android-config-bridge-obfs4

2. Check VPN and DNS

Disable any VPN services (e.g. NordVPN, ExpressVPN) if you are running one. This is because a VPN may cause a conflict with the Tor browser at times, although they can both co-exist together.

On a mobile phone, go to <Settings>, choose <Connections>, <More connection settings> and select <Private DNS>. Make sure that your private DNS is set to <AUTOMATIC>. Re-start the Tor browser and check if it establishes a connection.

3. Disable Antivirus / Security app

Sometimes your antivirus or security app may interfere with the Tor web browser.

Try to disable the antivirus program and restart Tor to see if this is causing the problem.

4. Keep the original Tor folder

Do not move the original Tor folder directory to another directory. Doing so can cause the Tor browser to stop unexpectedly and encounter this error message, which the browser cannot connect to itself.

Move the Tor folder back to its position and try connecting the Tor web browser again.

5. Update Tor Browser to the latest version

Make sure that you are downloading and using the official Tor browser. You can get the apk files through the official Tor Project website or install the browser directly through the official Play Store page.

Summary

Always do the primary troubleshooting method of restarting your device and opening the Tor browser again.

If this does not work, you can always re-install the Tor browser and try again.

Using Tor is a slow connection to access the Internet or the dark web. If you are using a VPN service as an extra layer of security protection, expect a very slow connection speed.

This slow speed can sometimes cause connection problems. Try disabling VPN and other antivirus & security applications.

5 Ways to FIX “Proxy Server Refused Connection” in Android Read More »

3 Ways to Have an Invisible Name on WhatsApp [& Other Sites]

How to / January 2, 2024

With more than 2 billion users worldwide, Whatsapp is currently the most commonly-used communication app.

Many people have asked if it is possible to have their profile name on WhatsApp (and on other apps) blank.

Yes, it is possible to leave your profile name as an empty blank field.

You can use the different methods stated here on other social media apps and platforms as well, e.g., on Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Telegram, Signal, Discord, etc.

The idea of having an invisible, empty name can be an ideal way of maintaining privacy online.

The effect of having an invisible profile name is done through creative ways of using invisible characters, symbols, and letters.

Table Of Contents

Who Can See Your WhatsApp Profile Name?
How to Change Your WhatsApp Profile Name?
How to Hide and have an Empty Blank Profile Name on WhatsApp?

Who Can See Your WhatsApp Profile Name?

When your number is not saved on someone’s phone, and they start to message you on WhatsApp, they can see your Profile Name.

Once they have saved your number and named you in their phone contact, they will no longer see your original profile name.

How to Change Your WhatsApp Profile Name?

Open Whatsapp and click on the menu button (three dots on the top-right)
Click <Settings>
Click on your Profile image
Under the Name section, click the edit button (pencil icon) to change your profile name.

How to Hide and have an Empty Blank Profile Name on WhatsApp?

Here are the three (3) different methods to do so.

Method 1: Use an Invisible Character

Invisible characters are Unicode characters used to create spaces or line breaks between sentences or pages.

These characters behave exactly like normal characters, except they are invisible.

We can use invisible characters to hide and create an illusion of an empty blank name in a Whatsapp profile.

Go to the Invisible Characters webpage and click <Copy> next to the <U+00AD soft Hyphen>.

copy-invisible-characters-whatsapp-empty-blank-name

Paste it on your Whatsapp name and click <Save>.

You now have an empty blank name in your WhatsApp profile.

Method 2: Use an Invisible Symbol

Copy the two (2) invisible symbols below and paste them on your WhatsApp profile name.

⇨ ຸ

Next, remove the arrow symbol.

You will now see only the comma symbol left. It will be invisible once you saved it.

Now, click <Save>.

Your WhatsApp profile name is hidden and looks empty and blank now.

Method 3: Use an English Braille Letter

This method will use a 6-dot braille cell pattern, also known as a blank Braille pattern.

The Unicode code point represents this letter U+2800.

Copy and paste the 6-dot braille pattern below onto your WhatsApp profile name.

⠀

Click <Save>, and your profile name will be hidden and will look like a blank and empty Profile name.

3 Ways to Have an Invisible Name on WhatsApp [& Other Sites] Read More »