See the forest for the trees: The Forest app helps you stay off your phone by growing a virtual tree while you focus on your tasks (get it free with in-app purchases for iOS or Android). If you leave the app to do something else, your tree dies. It’s a pretty cute visual reinforcement to keep you focused.
Don't download one of these scammy apps pretending to be an authenticator
A slew of phony authenticator apps is currently making waves, inspired by Twitter’s recent decision to make account two-factor authentication (2FA) a premium-only feature. Unsuspecting users are reporting problems. But not with the platform itself.
Authenticator apps take 2FA to the next level in terms of security. Here’s how these security tools work.
After users reported several nearly-identical authenticator apps with misleading descriptions, app stores are urged to take action. Read on for the sketchy details.
Why you should never trust an unverified 2FA app
Apple’s App Store is receiving criticism for holes in its App Review process. At least a dozen fake authenticator apps have been spotted, tricking users into unauthorized purchases and data fraud.
These apps are modified versions of the same generic shell, as a few iOS developers pointed out on Twitter. Many feature ads that you can’t click out of without accidentally “approving” payment to the developers. Some can even steal your 2FA altogether, putting your accounts at risk while you use it.
One big thing these fraudulent apps have in common? They claim to be free, but you cannot utilize the services advertised without opting into deceptive in-app purchases or subscriptions.
The family of apps and their presence in the App Store ad space is raising eyebrows. These apps should be vetted thoroughly before being allowed to advertise to users directly.
The bottom line: There are so many better ways to secure your data. Never download apps you can’t find important information about online, including the publisher and developer and the app itself should never appear out of nowhere. Checking app reviews before downloading is critical to staying protected.
RELATED: Security warning: How to spot fake ChatGPT apps hiding malware
Why the right 2FA is worth the wait
Two-factor authentication (2FA) might be the only thing between your data and hackers (such as the threat actors described above). Microsoft Authenticator and Google’s 2-step verification program are industry-standard options that we use.
Want to turn yourself into an avocado or taco? This app lets you put your face on any object
Move over Candy Crush! A new app is here to entertain you. If you’ve ever looked at a painting or sculpture and wished your face was on it, technology has finally evolved to make it happen. If you are curious what else you can do with your phone, tap or click here for nine apps Kim uses right now.
Money-saving tip: See all the apps you're paying for and cancel the ones you don't use
Do you have ongoing subscriptions to streaming services like Hulu or Netflix? Chances are you do. Most of us use at least one streaming service for entertainment, whether for listening to music, podcasts or binge-old movies.
5 classic board games you can play on your phone
Remember family game night? You’d sit around the kitchen table, grab a brightly colored piece of cardboard, pick your favorite piece, and inevitably get way too competitive over how grandma ended up with all the money.
Are you paying for Android apps you don’t use? Here’s how to cancel them
It’s so easy to get roped into a new subscription or two when you’re using your phone or tablet. It starts with those enticing free app trials and ends with months and months of autopayments for services you aren’t using.
10 amazing things you can do with Google Pay
You’ll probably spend some money no matter where you go or what you do. So why make that process any more difficult than it has to be by carrying around an overstuffed wallet of cards and payment methods?
If you’re a user of Google Pay or are just thinking about trying it, there may be some things yet to learn about it. Much like Apple Pay or Samsung Pay, Google’s contactless payment system allows you to pay for something with your phone almost anywhere contactless payment methods are accepted.
A soothing color-by-number game that teaches Bible truths
We found a free app that provides stress relief and encourages creativity. It’s perfect for the whole family and, it has a biblical theme. It’s simple, fun, and, most of all, relaxing.