You’re probably already familiar with using WiFi to get in touch with others when SMS texting fails. Messenger and Kik, for example, help you send texts to others using a WiFi connection. iPhone users see the difference when they send blue-boxed texts from iMessage instead of green. All major carriers provide WiFi calling to their customers, and all you need is a WiFi capable device.

WiFi Calling Makes Connecting Easier

WiFi calling utilizes a WiFi network, whether that’s a public network, at-home network or hotspot, to make a call as versus a carrier’s network connection. Treating clients to a cocktail hour and trying to help a colleague find the bar, only to be the victim of a poor connection? Get in touch with WiFi calling and remain connected with your clients.

WiFi calling is robust in that you can use it anywhere there’s WiFi. Easily circumvent weak signal strength, dropped calls and spotty networks. Stuck in a basement? Where there’s WiFi, there’s connectivity and the power to do more with your business and for your clients.

In many ways, WiFi calling is like making or receiving any other phone call with your carrier’s connection. The quality of the connection relies on the strength of your signal.

To turn on your WiFi calling, it’s usually as simple as going to Settings > Calls > WiFi Calling and toggling the feature on. If this feature is not available, your carrier may not offer it, or you may be prompted to contact your carrier regarding setup.

Need something a little more in-depth on how to enable WiFi calling? We’ve got you covered below.

How to Use WiFi Calling on an Android

How do you set up WiFi calling on an Android device? To enable WiFi calling on an Android:

1. Go to “Settings.”
2. Tap on “Advanced Calling.”
3. Enable “WiFi Calling.”

Once you enable WiFi calling, you will see a prompt to enter your address to route emergency calls. After that, dial the number you need, and you will see a WiFi calling icon when the service is in use.

How to Use WiFi Calling on an iPhone

How do you activate WiFi calling on an iPhone? Here are the steps you need to take to enable WiFi calling on your iPhone:

1. Open the “Settings” application.
2. Tap “Phone” and select “WiFi Calling.”
3. Toggle the “WiFi Calling on This iPhone” on.

You may see a notification about collecting data regarding your location. You should tap “Enable” to ensure “WiFi Calling” is on, and you may also be prompted to enter an address to route emergency services. Please note that iOS 12 phones only turn on WiFi calling when cellular reception is very low.

Additional Need-to-Knows About WiFi Calling

Some situations arise where you need to know a bit more about WiFi calling, aside from how to turn the feature on and off. Here are a few common questions.

1. Can you use WiFi calling without carrier service?

Yes, but you would need an unlocked phone that is not assigned to a carrier. Your ability to send and receive texts and phone calls would also rely on a WiFi connection.

So, it’s not the best solution for those entrepreneurs on the go who consider their smartphone as an office in their pocket.

A few nomads who prefer the lone wolf lifestyle use free apps to get a burner number to make WiFi calls and texts when they are ready to connect.

2. Is WiFi calling better than cellular connectivity?

For the most part, the quality of WiFi calling is similar to when making calls inside your carrier’s network. Your WiFi call quality depends on the strength of the WiFi signal. If the connection isn’t strong or if too many people are on the network, the quality of your WiFi call won’t be as satisfying.

3. Is WiFi calling free?

Most major carriers offer free WiFi calling, but some smaller carriers offer WiFi phone calls as an add-on. The only time you may get charged is if you are traveling internationally, and your WiFi call shifts back to your carrier’s network when a better signal is found.

To solve this, you can turn on Airplane Mode temporarily while connecting over WiFi. Teltik customers always get free WiFi calling because we know how important it is for you to remain available and connected.

4. Why isn’t WiFi calling working on my phone?

Is your WiFi calling on? Go back through the steps and look at the manufacturer’s website for guidelines. Perhaps, “WiFi Calling” is listed in a slightly different area on your phone.

Is your WiFi on? Check the connection. Try resetting it.

Reset your “Network Settings.” Tap on “Settings” and look for “Network Settings” under sections such as “General,” “Reset” or anything related to “Network Settings.” You may find it faster using the search bar. Keep in mind that this will erase your WiFi settings, so you will need to reenter the information after resetting.

When all else fails, call your carrier.

No wireless carrier maintains 100% coverage, which is why WiFi calling offers a great backup option for businesses on the go. This important feature is always free for Teltik customers, where you can guarantee a quality connection with an unlimited phone plan.

The post What is WiFi Calling? appeared first on Teltik.

The most common germs you can encounter as a result of contaminated contact include ones that cause diarrhea, flu and the cold, but also staph, MRSA, norovirus and more. Fortunately, the skin is the largest organ of the body and pretty resilient, minus the odd scrape or when your immune defenses take a dip. So, don’t forget to hydrate and eat a well-balanced diet to stay on top of your health because where you go, your phone goes, and germs join the party.

Mobile Phones Make Germs More Mobile

Since your skin hosts its own circus of bacteria, you should sanitize anything you regularly touch. Your phone is like another hand, so you must clean it frequently, too. In fact, your phone has roughly 17,000 germs, ten times dirtier than a toilet seat, not to mention that most Americans check their phones 47 times a day.

Now, consider where you place your phone throughout the day. What surfaces does it encounter? Your mobile counterpart goes where you go, whether that’s to the toilet, to dinner or the seat next to you as you take an Uber. Microbiologist Dr. Charles “Germ” Gerba and his team from the University of Arizona tested cell phones that held 100,000 bacteria. Germs have greater mobility these days thanks to mobile phones.

The CDC recommends disinfecting and cleaning frequently touched surfaces daily, especially those touched by other people. Those in a traditional office environment may remember to regularly disinfect desks, keyboards, mouses and corded telephones. However, many forget contact surface decontamination, which should include your cell phone.

Before You Disinfect Your Phone

Unless you come into direct contact with mucus or have a health concern, you may feel like disinfecting your phone daily isn’t necessary. Clean your phone every day when you use your phone during meals and other routines frequently. Some may prefer to clean their mobile phones twice a week while others may do it more often, even twice a day.

Consider increasing how often you sanitize your cell phone during the flu season or at times when you’re more concerned about your health or the surfaces you are interacting with.

So, how do you sanitize your cell phone? Should you use wipes? Is it safe to use alcohol or other chemicals on your phone? When sanitizing your iPhone or Android, review these essential guidelines before disinfecting your phone:

• Always review the manufacturer’s booklet or website for instructions on cleaning before you disinfect your phone. Different phones are better equipped to handle different cleaners. Google recommends using cleaning wipes or ordinary household soap as needed for the Pixel 3a, but it also does not restrict the use of alcohol-based wipes. Apple states that it’s acceptable to clean iPhones with Clorox disinfectant wipes or 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipes, but every iPhone has different guidelines.
• Don’t clean your phone while it’s charging. Always remove your phone from its charger and turn it off before you try to clean it.
• When using wipes, disinfect your phone with wipes specifically made for electronic devices, not wipes used for regular cleaning. Wipes should not contain pure alcohol. The proper wipes will usually specify that they are for electronics on the packaging, such as Windex Electronics Wipes, 3M Electronic Equipment Wipes or Nice N’ Clean Electronic Wipes. Many of these wipes are available at major retailers like Best Buy or Walmart.
• You can also use e-cloths or microfiber cloths on your phone with a disinfectant. Avoid paper towels as they can be too abrasive.
• When using liquid disinfectants, be careful with mixing the wrong concentrations of water and alcohol. Though disinfectants can clean cases and perhaps the exterior of a phone, keep it away from the glass. The solution may get underneath the glass and potentially destroy the phone, or at least the oleophobic coating that protects your phone screen.
• Never use the following to clean your phone for risk of damage: compressed air, aerosol spray cleaners, harsh solvents (like toluene, acetone or benzene), bleach, hydrogen peroxide, abrasive powders or window or household cleaners.

How to Disinfect Your Phone: A General Guide

If not using wipes, here is a general guide on how to safely disinfect most phones with a microfiber cloth and disinfectant solution. To proceed, you’ll need:

• Lint-free microfiber cloth
• ½ cup distilled water
• ½ cup 70% isopropyl alcohol
• Cotton swabs

Follow these steps to disinfect your phone, comparing them with manufacturer guidelines:

1. Unplug your phone and turn it off, removing earbuds and the case.
2. Mix distilled water and isopropyl alcohol in a one-to-one ratio, adding it to a spray bottle. Do not substitute for the distilled water if you live in an area where you have hard water. Shake the bottle like a Polaroid picture.
3. Gently spray the microfiber cloth with the mixture, not overwetting the cloth. Don’t spray your cell phone directly.
4. Clean the entire phone using the misted microfiber cloth, wiping down the sides, front and back. To disinfect your phone screen, pay special attention, again, to how wet the cloth is so you don’t damage the phone. Gently wipe the screen.
5. Look closely for debris in small areas. Do you see any buildup around buttons, attachment ports or the camera lens? Gently use a cotton swab to clean the areas, and follow up with the misted microfiber cloth.
6. Allow the phone to completely air dry for 15 minutes before use. See the next section for tips on cleaning your cell phone case.

Tips to Clean Your Cell Phone Case

If you sanitize your cell phone, only to put it back in a dirty case, then what’s the point? The protective aspect of the case becomes pointless, in a sense. Phone cases come in different materials, such as leather, hard plastic or silicone. Most cases also have textured edges to give the user a better grip, but these edges are also prone to grime and need regular cleaning.

So, how do you clean each type of case? Here are a few tips:

• Leather: Clean leather cases with products specified for leather, such as saddle soap. Let the case dry completely before reinserting the phone.
• Hard plastic: Lightly mist the microfiber cloth with the distilled water and isopropyl alcohol mixture solution. Wipe the case down. Dip a cotton swab in the solution and clean the buttons, lens opening area and any texture edges. Let the case dry completely before reinserting the phone.
• Silicone: Clean silicone cases with dishwashing soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth to clean grimy areas. Use the microfiber and distilled water/isopropyl alcohol solution technique for daily cleaning. Let the case dry completely before reinserting the phone.

Still don’t think you need to sanitize your phone? While the average person checks their phone 47 times a day, a 2019 dscout survey found that people touch their phone 2,617 times a day. Wiping down your phone, touchscreen and case should at least be part of your weekly routine.

Clean your “office on the go” with as much care as you give your physical office. It’s the little things that give great first impressions and instill confidence in your business investments, especially when you’ve got us to back you up with affordable and secured data plans.

The post How to Sanitize Your Phone appeared first on Teltik.

If you don’t have a webcam on your laptop or PC, or you want better picture quality than what you currently have, we have good news. You don’t need to buy a separate webcam (and in some places, you can’t anyway); you can use your phone as a webcam.

Provided you have a newish smartphone (no more than a few years old) your phone camera is decent enough to give you the picture quality you need. And yes, it doesn’t matter whether it is an Apple or Android phone. The image quality will certainly be better than your default laptop webcam unless your laptop is new. As an added advantage, it’s easier to position your phone to get the right angle of your face.

Learn how to turn your phone into a webcam in the article below.

Must I Get a Webcam App?

You don’t really need a specialized webcam app, although they come with a host of features to make the experience better. If you’re not making a high stakes call, you may simply be comfortable launching an app of your choice – Zoom, FaceTime or Skype – and chatting right from your phone. There are steps to take to make the video quality better, even when chatting directly on the phone. Keep reading for more details.

Connecting Using an Android Smartphone

First, you need to download an app that lets you use your Android phone as a substitute webcam for your PC or laptop. There are dozens of apps you can use for this, but most experts recommend using DroidCam Wireless Webcam. DroidCam creates a connection between your phone and Windows computer, either through a USB cable or on Wi-Fi or other wireless networks.

DroidCam includes free and paid versions, and you can still use the free version if you don’t mind having ads displayed on your phone. The premium version comes with a few extras, both for the phone and for customization of your Windows client. Some include:

• Changing image contrast and sharpness
• Mirroring your video
• Rotating video
• Supporting high-res video (720p), and,
• Getting double the frame rate through the FPS Boost setting

However, if you’re just looking for the basic setting that turns your phone into a webcam, such as to facilitate web meetings or remote schooling, the free version works just fine. Before proceeding, ensure that your phone and computer are connected to the same wireless network.

Step 1: Download the App

Search for DroidCam Wireless Webcam on Google Play Store and select it. Follow the prompts to install it and wait for it to download and install. Once installed, you can move to configure your Windows PC or laptop.

Step 2: Download DroidCam Client App for PC

Open your default browser and search it, or go directly to DroidCam Windows Client. Tap the large button written DroidCam Client vX.X.X Download to download and install it. This will download a zip file, DroidCam.Client.6.0.FullOffline.zip to your default downloads location, or you can move it to whichever location you prefer.

Extract the contents of the zip file and look for the executable file DroidCam.Client.6.0.exe, whose size is just under 1MB. Double-click the executable file and follow the wizard to install the DroidCam client on your PC.

The only thing to note is that you’ll be prompted to install driver software from DEV47 APPS, which you MUST accept, or you won’t be able to connect the client to the phone. Open the Windows Client when the installation is complete.

Step 3: Connect the App on Your Phone to the Windows Client App

Open the DroidCam Wireless Webcam from your Apps list. You’ll get a start guide to show you how to use the app. Read and click on Next, then Got It at the bottom. You’ll be prompted to give permission to use the phone microphone and camera, which you must accept for the app to operate properly.

The next screen will show you the Wi-Fi network connected to your phone, the smartphone IP address and the port which the app uses. You’ll need those details shortly.

From your Windows PC, open DroidCam Client and look for Connect over Wi-Fi (LAN). Here, enter the IP address and port details, then select Video and Audio checkboxes. If you don’t check Audio, you’ll use your PC microphone, instead of your phone’s.

Step 4: Start Video Feed

Now you’re ready for your web conference or remote learning session. Clicking Start will begin video data transmission. If everything is working properly, you’ll see a preview of this video on your PC DroidCam Client.

Step 5: Connect to Other Apps

To actually set up an online video conference, you’ll need to configure the app you use to see your smartphone as the webcam to be used. For example, if using Skype, go to the three dots, then select Settings>>Audio & Video. At the top, you’ll see Camera and an option to set the webcam to be used. Choose the DroidCam Source X, where X is a number, e.g. DroidCam Source 1.

You’ll do the same thing for Zoom web conferencing, Facebook, FaceTime, and other video chatting apps. The steps may be slightly different depending on the app. If you don’t know how to set up your specific app to receive webcam feeds from your phone, simply Google how to do it.

Connecting Your Smartphone via USB

You can connect to your smartphone by using a USB or making a direct connection on wireless networks. The advantage of USB connections is that you can use the phone as a webcam without connecting to the internet. You’ll still need the internet to communicate with someone else, however.

The USB method is used by advanced users since you’ll be tinkering with the USB Debugging setting in the Developer Options. If you want to set it up, follow these instructions to set up a USB connection.

Set up your phone to Debugging mode by going to Settings>>Applications>>Development>>USBDebugging. Connect the phone to the computer using a USB cable (select USB debugging mode if your phone prompts you after connecting).

On the DroidCam Client app on your PC, choose the USB option, and you should be able to see your feed.

Bonus Tips for Online Web Conferencing

If you have a little money to spare, or you’ll be having multiple web conferences, you might want to invest in a mini tripod and tripod mount (both of these cost less than $25 online) to help set up your phone at the proper angle. But even without the tripod and mount, you can improvise with things you already have in the house to set up the best camera angle.

Note that running the app will drain your phone battery, so you should hook it to a charging outlet or external power back. Use the phone’s main camera (the back camera), which has better picture quality and more options for zooming and focusing. Some phones have better selfie cameras though, so you should decide what works for you.

Choose a spot with adequate lighting, or put a lamp next to you to make your face look brighter and eliminate shadows that interfere with picture quality.

Conclusion

As you can see, setting up your Android phone to use as a webcam isn’t very difficult – anyone can do it. Today’s phones have very advanced cameras, and you’ll get excellent picture quality with the added advantage of being able to set up the camera angle to be more comfortable for you.

The post How to Use Your Phone as a Webcam appeared first on Teltik.

What is tethering? Tethering devices offer handy access to the internet in a pinch, but how do you do it? When you tether, you use your phone or data-driven device as a router with other devices that can’t connect to the internet at the moment, such as your laptop or tablet.

What does tethering mean? Depending on the equipment you have, there are many ways to tether, such as via USB or Bluetooth. You may also need a tethering plan from your carrier since non-allowed tethering can violate the terms and conditions of your existing contract. From tethering an iPhone to USB tethering, here’s your ultimate guide to getting connected.

How to Tether an iPhone

How do you tether with an iPhone? Only iPhone 3 and beyond supports tethering. Here’s how to tether an iPhone to an iPhone via personal hotspot:

1. Tap the “Settings” app on your iPhone.
2. Select “Personal Hotspot,” or you will see “Set Up a Personal Hotspot,” urging you to contact your carrier.
3. Toggle the switch from “Off” to turn the hotspot “On.” Create a network name and choose your password.
4. On the second iPhone, select “Settings.”
5. Choose “Wi-Fi.”
6. Once inside the “Choose a Network” tab locate your personal hotspot.
7. Enter the password to “Join.”

What happens if you don’t see the network on the second iPhone? Toggle the switch for the hotspot off and on for the first phone. Place the second phone near the first one and try to connect again.

How to Tether an iPhone to a PC

How do you tether your iPhone to a computer? Here are the guidelines to get you set up:

1. Within your system menu, click the wireless network and bring up the available networks for your area.
2. Choose the network that has the same name as your iPhone.
3. Connect and enter the password to join.

How to Tether an iPhone to Mac OS X

How do you tether your computer to an iPhone? Ready to tether your Mac to an iPhone or tether an iPad to an iPhone? Here are a few guidelines to get you connected:

1. Select the wireless icon from the menu at the top of the screen. The available wireless networks in your area will appear.
2. Choose the network that has the same name as your iPhone.
3. Choose this network and enter the password to join.

How to Tether an Android

How do you go about cell phone tethering with your Android?

1. Go to “Settings” and select “Network and Internet.” You may see another variation under the terms “Tethering and Portable Hotspot,” “Mobile Hotspot” or “Tethering.”
2. Tap “Hotspot and Tethering.”
3. Then, tap “Wi-Fi Hotspot.” Enter a name for the hotspot.
4. Once you tap “Security,” select “WPA2 PSK.” Tap to update the password.
5. Connect to the hotspot like a regular Wi-Fi network.

How to Use Bluetooth Tethering

Alternatively, use your cell phone for Bluetooth tethering with your computer. Keep in mind that Bluetooth means a slower connection, but it’s the next best thing to a hotspot. You also conserve battery power.

Have you tried to connect before and find Bluetooth tethering not available? To proceed, your computer and phone both need to have Bluetooth capability. Follow these steps to connect your phone’s internet to your PC via Bluetooth and turn on Bluetooth tethering:

1. Make sure your phone is connected to the internet, and then turn on Bluetooth on your phone.
2. Is your phone discoverable with Bluetooth? Tap on “Settings,” then “More Networks,” and select “Tethering and Portable Hotspot.” You may also see tethering options by the name of “Personal Hotspot” or “Mobile Data.”
3. Enable Bluetooth tethering.
4. On the PC, turn on your Bluetooth. Under “Settings,” select your phone and then pair the devices.

How to Use USB Tethering

Tired of searching “USB tethering Android” and “USB tethering iPhone?” Unlike hotspot and Bluetooth options, USB tethering requires a cable connection. Once you locate a USB cable, you are ready to tether. Follow these steps:

1. Use the USB cable to connect your phone to your PC. Do not enable File Transfer; if the notification appears, cancel it.
2. Under “Settings” on your phone, select “Wi-Fi” or “Network Settings” on PC. On Mac, you can directly select “Personal Hotspot.” Activate your personal hotspot. For Android, you will see “More Networks” and then “Tethering” underneath Settings. Toggle the “USB Tethering” button to on.
3. Visit the “Network Settings” area of your computer system to check that your devices are enabled.

The perks of having a free hotspot plan mean that you can get what you need done anywhere at any time, especially if you run a business on the go. You can tether any Wi-Fi device.

Teltik offers business cell phone plans with unrestricted tethering for affordable prices, so you can do what you need to do. Propel your business and worry less about connectivity issues.

The post How To Tether appeared first on Teltik.

Using your smartphone over the internet exposes you to different risks like cyber-attacks and identity theft. Some of the most basic Android security precautions, like locking your home screen, can help protect your device from data theft. Securing your home screen enhances your iPhone security, and prevents unauthorized access to the contents of your phone.

Apart from having private data stolen from your phone, a virus attack may also corrupt it. As such, it’s only essential that you know how to protect the phone from hackers and enhance phone virus protection.

What Types of Threats Do Smartphones Face?

In the past, the biggest cybersecurity threats only existed on computers, but this has changed. Since your smartphone is at the risk of cyber-attack, you should be concerned with phone theft protection measures. Before then, it’s essential that you understand the type of threats that your smartphone is exposed to.

Mobile security threats fall into different categories. One is the application-based threats that happen when people download a malicious app. If you ever wondered, “what is mobile malware,” the answer lies in application-based risks.

These are applications that disguise themselves as legit, but in real sense, they skim data from your device.

Network-based threats are common when you use public networks. Cybercriminals steal unencrypted data from your phone when you connect to publicly shared internet connections.

The other category is the physical threats that happen when your phone is stolen or gets lost. Hackers get direct access to the hardware where your data is stored. Physical phone threats are more dangerous, and phone theft protection should be a priority.

Web-based threats are another category, but these tend to go unnoticed as they’re more subtle. They happen when you visit sites that seem legit. In the real sense, they’re created to download malicious content into your device automatically.

In this regard, what is the need for security in mobile phones? Ensuring your device is protected keeps your data safe and protects you from possible fraud.

How to Secure Your Phone

Protecting your phone from attack goes beyond locking the home screen. Remember, there’s more at stake than losing your contacts and text messages if you lose your phone. Even without using your phone to access the internet or store private data, you can still be at risk.

You can stay several steps ahead of modern mobile security threats if you’re keen on mobile phone security tips. If you lock your phone as part of security measures, go ahead and adopt other security measures as outlined here.

• Protect Sensitive Data

In days past, using a PIN and password was all you needed to protect your phone. However, this isn’t sufficient anymore as people can easily remove the microSD card and access your data. Another approach to protecting your sensitive data is to use phone encryption strategies.

Some smartphone platforms offer software that can encrypt files or folders with industry-standard protection. Encryption means that a specific code must be entered before viewing or copying a file. Anyone without this code may not be able to access the files, passwords, account numbers, and login details.

• Enable Google Play Protect Feature

In addition to encryption of data, consider using the protection software on Google Play Store. This is a feature that runs a safety check on the apps you wish to download from the play store. It checks for any potential malware and warns you when it detects them.

The software also periodically scans your phone. It sends you privacy alerts about apps that ask for permission to access private information. Once an installed app has been detected to contain malware, the best thing is for you to uninstall it.

• Be Wary of WiFi Connections

With most smartphones, it’s possible to connect to a WiF network. Any device connected to such networks faces a potential security threat.

Ensure you always switch off all WiFi connections when not in use. This will prevent malicious parties from connecting to your phone without you knowing. Switch off automatic WiFi connection feature on your phone for more security.

With a Teltik unlimited phone plan, you won’t need to worry about your data limits.

Basic Phone Security

Phone security falls into basic and advanced levels. Basic phone security can go a long way in helping protect your data from cybersecurity attacks. They make it harder for hackers to gain access to private information.

Two Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication is an extra step that seems tedious but adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts. It helps check and verify your identity before allowing access to your account.

The process generates a time-sensitive code sent to you through a text message. Once you enter the code, you’re able to access the account you want to log into.

Update Your Phone

Regularly updating your phone’s software is essential in enhancing its security. Regular notifications to update your phone may seem like a nuisance, but they’re for your own good. The longer you take without updating the software, the higher the risk of malware attack and malfunction.

While updating the software, ensure you also backup your phone. It’s advisable to store your data on cloud servers where you can easily retrieve it in case you lose your phone.

Track Your Phone

Some software on the market can help you track your phone when you misplace it, or it gets stolen. You can install find my device app to allow you to track, lock, and erase information from your handset from wherever you are with just a tap.

Once you download it, sign in to your Google account and give the app permission to access your phone’s location.

Another thing that could put your phone at risk is charging your phone at public USB ports. Connecting to an open port does more than just charge your phone as it also transmits data. If a port is compromised, hackers can access your photos, contacts, and emails.

Advanced Phone Security

In addition to the above steps for basic phone protection, you can go a step further and use advanced protection.

Password Manager

If you have multiple accounts on your phone, remembering all the passwords may be a little tricky. Avoid using the same password across all accounts and, instead, use a password manager. It helps you log into your accounts without having to memorize the passwords.

All you need to do is create a master password and have it encrypted. This is the only password you’ll have to remember.

VPN

Virtual Private Networks or VPNs ensure that you make secure connections over the internet. You can send and receive data over shared or public networks while preventing unauthorized access to your data. Use a VPN to add an additional layer of protection between you and hackers.

App Permissions

App permissions are meant to help protect the privacy of your phone. Apps request permissions to access your sensitive data like SMS and contacts. Others also access the camera and the internet.

It’s essential that you check app permissions as some may cause you to grant dangerous access to sensitive data. Some permissions, like reading your phone’s contact, is dangerous permission that you shouldn’t allow.

Other advanced phone security approaches are to turn off unknown sources and use a physical security key. Unknown sources are applications that come from outside your phone’s Play Store. Your phone will ask you every time you’re about to install an app from an unknown source.

Final Thoughts

Your phone security is essential, mainly if you use it to access the internet. Apart from locking your phone, you need to consider more advanced security features. Avoid using public Wi-Fi connection and USB Ports, use VPN, check app permissions, and update your phone regularly.

The post Phone Security: How to Protect Your Phone appeared first on Teltik.

Cue you rushing to get a Ziploc bag, fill it with rice, slip your phone in and wait for a DIY recovery. You swear you’ll back up your phone next time, if only it’ll turn on again. Well, “next time” is today. Get ready to learn how to back up iPhone and how to back up Android in ways that work best for your time and business.

Why You Should Back Up Your Phone

Get your phone, right now. Scroll through your apps, documents, photos and other media. How much of this data matters to you, to your business?

What would happen if you accidentally tapped on a link containing a virus or your phone fell under the tap, straight into a sink full of water? A phone dropped in water, especially a dropped phone in the toilet (don’t deny it), is usually a data death sentence if not handled immediately. Awkward.

The risk of losing this data is a direct reflection of what your business stands to lose. Here are a few insights as to why you should back up your phone:

• Evil water elementals: your phone is not waterproof.
• Technological brain fog: data loss.
• Sneaky tech: malware attacks.
• Tests of gravity: you drop your phone or otherwise smash it.
• If they can’t have it, you can’t either: thieves.
• Or, fairies stole it: lost phone.

A smashed iPhone or Android, Android virus or malware on iPhone are the last tech fails you want to deal with when you have deals to make. As much as you may want to blame it on evil water elementals or fairies, take this step to protect your business and customers. Back up your phone.

Why Businesses Must Back Up Data

Many entrepreneurs believe that their focus should be on security strategy. However, to secure your network, you must focus on corporate data backup. Conduct regular backups to keep your company running smoothly. If a hack or natural disaster occurs, your business and its sensitive data are safe. Nothing is lost, but everything is gained.

Malware and ransomware are other threats to look out for. Don’t risk compromising the privacy of your customers and the secrets of your business success. Make backing up your data a regular and vital business routine.

What should you include in a data backup? All files that your company generated or modified must receive a regular backup, which may range from everything from your accounting records to your emails. Remember, emails can be understood as contracts in some legal scenarios.

An increasing number of apps for businesses are available on the cloud. You don’t need to back up desktop apps since you can download or reinstall them.

iPhone Backup

Does your iPhone have iOS 5, at least? Then, use a backup feature already built into the iPhone: iCloud backs up data automatically once you turn this feature on. Here’s how to back up iPhone to iCloud:

• Connect your iPhone to a secure Wi-Fi network.
• Tap Settings > iCloud > Backup.
• Turn on iCloud Backup.
• If connected to Wi-Fi, tap Back Up Now.

When you tap Settings > iCloud > Storage > Manage Storage, choose your device. Your most recent backup should be listed. You can also access iCloud on your desktop with a simple download.

You receive 5GB free in iCloud, but if you need more space, you will have to purchase a backup plan. 50GB costs $0.99 each month. 200GB costs $2.99 each month, and 1TB costs $9.99 each month. Though convenient, the fees add up, and you may consider other online storage services.

iTunes Backup

To use iTunes backup, you will need a computer, either a Mac or PC, that runs iTunes. Use a secure Wi-Fi connection or USB cord to let the devices communicate and backup data. Follow these steps to back up iPhone with iTunes.

• Open iTunes.
• Connect the iPhone via USB or Wi-Fi to your computer.
• Click File > Devices > Backup, or click Backup Up Now on the Summary page.

Android Backup

What about backup android phone solutions? Android has its own backup solution, the Android Backup Service.

The service backs up your settings and apps, allowing you to easily restore this data on a new phone if something happens to your old one. To activate Android Backup, follow these steps:

• Open the Settings app.
• Tap on Accounts and Backup.
• Tap on Backup and Restore.
• Toggle the Back Up My Data switch, adding your account if you need to.

Your account is now backed up. You can also use a third-party service if you prefer.

Backing Up Android to Your Computer

By now, you may feel overwhelmed by all the options for backup. Why can’t you just stash it all on your computer? It’s easy-access and easy to do on any computer. Android backup to PC may be the best option for your business.

Those who use MAC need to install the Android File Transfer app. Back up your Android phone to your computer by following these steps:

• Connect your phone via USB to your computer.
• Plug your phone into your computer with your USB cable.
• Open the storage on your phone under My Computer for Windows, and for Mac, go to Android File Transfer.
• Drag over the files to a computer folder for backup.

Notes on Cloud Storage

Thinking about using cloud storage and searching “backup phone to Google Drive,” “backup iPhone to OneDrive” or “backup phone to cloud?” It’s as simple as signing up, dragging over files and waiting on the upload. Picking a cloud storage service is half the battle.

Choosing to back up your data with online services is convenient when backing up a mobile device. For those with businesses on the go, cloud computing may be more ideal. It’s important to make regular local backups of your cloud data in case of hacking.

Regularly change your passwords, and make them strong with random capitalization, punctuation, numbers and uncommon word grouping. Encrypt your files.

Local Backups

Locally saved data allows you to back up files and data that you need to archive on one drive. Local backups are great for accounting, spreadsheets, documents, emails and photos. After the initial archive, you can use a backup software program to make the updates.

It’s strongly recommended that you conduct nightly backups. For more security, look into offsite storage for your archives and backups.

USB Drive Backup

You search “backup phone to USB” to see if it’s more than a convenient option. Is it safe?

USB drives, or thumb drives, come in larger sizes these days that make for convenient backup for data on the go. USB drives don’t hold as much data as an external hard drive. However, you can quickly back up data to a thumb drive, and then take it to offsite storage or where you need to use it next.

USB drives are very “plug and play,” and they’re also easy to lose. Another reminder to back up your backups.

External Hard Drives

You search “backup iPhone to external hard drive” or “backup Android to external hard drive” to see if the two will actually pair well for storage. Yes, it will.

For small businesses, buying and using an external hard drive for data backups is the recommended method. Just plug it in.

Back up your iPhone to external hard drive:

• Connect your iPhone.
• Launch iTunes. Another option is to locate your iPhone with Finder.
• Select Back Up Now.
• With that complete, open the iOS_backup folder on your external hard drive.
• The time and date should match the most recent backup.

Backup Android to external hard drive:

Plug your Android into your computer. It should come up as a drive immediately, or look for it on the notification tab. Select it for more options, including File Transfer.

Local Area Network (LAN) Storage

Do you have a local area network (LAN)? Then, you can back up your files and databases to an additional computer or a server. However, this type of storage is sometimes vulnerable to theft.

Tape Storage

Do you have boatloads of data that have to survive evil water elementals? For large amounts of data, use tape backups if you are focused on reliability and retaining large data archives. Tape storage is on the decline, but if your business relies on long-term archives, don’t discount tape.

Security in Critical 3-2-1 Storage

You should always back up your data, but you should also always back up your backups. Ensure that data is secured with the 3-2-1 strategy. You always retain three copies of your data: two are local and on different devices, with one offsite copy. For example, you may retain two copies on a thumb drive and Google Drive with one copy on LAN.

Create a “no data left behind” plan by taking your data security strategy deeper. Back up your phone today with three of the best backup options listed here that work for your business.

Need more data for your data transfer? Check out Teltik’s most popular, unlimited business phone plan for only $40 a month. Mighty data and secure backup means you stay confident when a test of gravity plunges your phone into your morning cup of coffee. Now, back up that phone!

The post How to Back Up Your Phone appeared first on Teltik.

Customer demands are ever-changing as are your business needs. There are many reasons your business might want to record phone calls, and with a Teltik business phone plan, you can. But how do you record a phone call? What is the best way to record phone calls?

The Benefits of Recording Calls for Business

From paying bills to taking orders, nearly everything in the modern age is automated. Recording phone calls automatically, or via a tap on your smartphone, is to be expected by an entrepreneur who keeps up with technology and uses it to their advantage. Here are five benefits of recording calls for business:

1. Monitor Quality Assurance and Training

“All calls are recorded for quality assurance and training,” drones the automated voice while a customer is on hold. It’s the standard announcement before a customer service representative picks up on the other end of the line.

Recorded phone calls ensure representatives get the most out of their training, and managers better monitor the success of that training. It allows you to gain insight into a representative’s performance to see if they may need additional guidance.

You can use various customer scenarios to source examples of what not to do and what to do from real life interactions. You can also use the recordings to ensure you are maintaining quality assurance standards and creating satisfactory customer experiences.

2. Keep Up With Regulatory Compliance

Many businesses must abide by stringent regulatory compliance laws. For example, medical industry businesses have to comply with HIPPA regulations to protect patient information by following the Declaratory Ruling and Order issued by the FCC.

Business phone call records help administrators stay in compliance by reviewing the exact details shared on the line. You can ensure that representatives follow regulatory compliance laws and implement guidelines into their policies for doing so, in order to avoid unfortunate and illegal errors.

3. Build Customer Personas

The data logged during a call helps a business improve its products and services. However, call recordings better your business by helping you understand your customers in detail, from who they are, to anticipating their future needs, in their own words.

Marketing teams should also listen to call recordings. The marketing department can use these interactions to build a customer persona and turn the data for different demographics into tangible identities to serve. For example, if Gen Z people keep calling to request an update to a product, your company can alter the product and learn more about strategically positioning it on the market.

The more authentically your business can relate to its customers, the more they, in turn, will engage with you and remain loyal.

4. Form a Legal Verbal Contract

How legally binding is a verbal contract? For an oral agreement to become a legally binding contract, it must contain an offer, an acceptance of the offer (or its counter-offer), an intention to form legal relations and consideration (quantifiable items of exchange).

If an oral agreement is recorded, then it makes the fact that a verbal contract was formed easier to prove should a legal dispute arise. The litigation that ensues could easily crush a small business and do significant damage to the reputation of a larger business. A contract over phone is just as binding as one made on paper. Think of the recording as the “paper” for the body of your agreement, and one that’s more likely to stand up in court.

5. Offer Legal Proof

Aside from verifying the details of a verbal contract, you can also use saved phone recordings to protect your business against scams and fraud, and to help your employees block scammers. Use the recordings to train your representatives on fraud schemes. Recorded calls also come in handy if an employee is suspected or accused of fraud.

Keep in mind that each state has its own laws about consent regarding recording phone calls and what can and cannot be used as legal proof in court. Maintaining legal and moral ethics when it comes to recording calls will keep your business safe and your customers happy.

The Ethics of Recording Business Phone Calls

Can companies record phone calls? There are several considerations to keep in mind when recording business phone calls. Your organization will need to choose the right approach to technology for your requirements and fully understand the legal requirements for ethically capturing business conversations.

What are the laws on recording conversations? Federal law requires one-party consent, but the states each have their own regulations.

In some states, all parties in the conversation must give their consent to make it eligible as legal proof. In two party consent states, all subjects involved must be informed that they are being recorded before the act of recording begins.

In one party consent states, only the consent of one person is required to record the conversation. In this case, if you are doing the recording, you don’t have to tell the other party you are recording. As an example, Washington D.C. only requires one party consent.

Some states also have unique exceptions in some of their call recording regulations. In Hawaii, an otherwise one party consent state, all parties have to be notified that they are being recorded when in a private area, such as a personal residence.

When running a business, transparency in how a customer’s data is used maintains their trust and loyalty. This inherent fact poses a question of ethics that businesses must decide for themselves in advance, beyond call recording regulations.

Savvy and Secure Ways To Record Phone Calls

Previously, phone call recording was limited to the largest businesses that could afford the hardware and features required to record, store and manage all the recordings. In the Technological Age, many methods are available to serve your specific call recording needs, such as an automatic call recorder, an in line phone recorder or CRM with call recording.

Now, cloud services make call recording possible for businesses on the move, like digital nomads.

It’s as simple as downloading an app for your pocket-sized small business. Are you an Android or iOS user? Remember, not all call recording apps are built the same.

Each call recording app has its benefits and limitations corresponding with its price tag or lack thereof. Some apps won’t record calls automatically. You have to dial a specific number as a three-way conference call where the additional line records the call which you can later access. You can store the recording yourself, for a price, or some apps will store the call for you, for a higher price.

A better to option is to choose one of our business phone plans that automatically records calls, which you can access in your call history across devices on the cloud. Small business phone plans have higher security levels than you may be able to afford currently, protecting sensitive customer data.

Some call recording technology integrates with the business’ marketing automation platform (MAP) or customer relationship management (CRM) software. With a host, the provider stores the calls which the user can access through an online management portal. From there, you can listen to, assign interactions, download, or delete calls. Make sure this information is encrypted for security purposes.

With call recording, you can gather customer data ethically with CRM programs, and monitor social media for engagement levels. Listen to your recorded calls, let your customers speak for themselves, and get to know them.

Combine all of this data to build customer personas to better the experiences of your consumers, as well as to improve your services and products. With a plan from Teltik, you can drive your business to success while protecting your brand and the people behind it.

The post How to Record a Phone Call appeared first on Teltik.

If you’ve bought a new SIM card or phone, you need to know how to change SIM cards. The process is simple, and it only takes a minute or two for you to get online. Depending on the phone you’re using, you may need to have a SIM-eject tool. If you don’t, you can just use a paperclip (some may have a plastic coating that’ll need to be peeled off).

When you’re ready, here is how you can get started swapping SIM cards.

What Kind Of SIM Card Do I Have?

First, it’s vital to understand the different SIM card sizes and identify the right size for your phone. Keep in mind that all the sizes work precisely the same way. The only difference is the plastic frame that surrounds the metallic chip.

The standard SIM card used to be the most popular option before and during the onset of smartphones. It measures about 15 x 25mm. Some of the phones that use this size include the Xperia E, Xperia E1, Nexus S, Galaxy Y, Optimus L5 II, Huawei Y3, HTC Desire, and more.

The micro-SIM card measures about 12 x 15mm and it became popular as smartphones continued to grow and change in design. This size replaced the standard size in most phones, with most mid-range or entry-level handsets requiring the micro size. The iPhone 4, BlackBerry Leap, HTC Desire 300, Ascend Y530, and LG G Flex are some of the phones that use this size.

Then, we have the nano-SIM card, which is the smallest of the three. Newer high-end flagship smartphones typically require this size, and it measures 8.8 x 12.3mm. The Moto Z, Google Pixel, iPhone X, and Huawei P9 are some of the handsets that use the nano-sized card.

Where Does The SIM Card Go?

Before inserting your new SIM card, you also need to know where it goes on your phone.

If you have an iPhone, the latest Samsung phone, or any other high-end phone, you should check for a SIM card tray on the side of the phone, which will look like a small rounded rectangle with a hole on one side. You’ll need a SIM-eject tool or paper clip to open and remove the plate. You’ll then place the card in the tray and push it back in.

For most older phones, you’ll have to open the battery compartment to find the SIM card slot. On some phones, you should be able to see the slot right above the battery once you have removed the rear cover. On others, the slot is underneath the battery.

Open The Phone

When you’re ready to insert the SIM card, it’s advisable to turn off the phone. This helps to prevent harm to your phone or the card itself. Now that you know your phone’s SIM card size, you need to take out the SIM card from the plastic card carrier carefully.

Phones with External Sim Card Trays

As noted before, you’ll need a SIM card removal tool or paper clip to eject the SIM card tray if you have the latest version of most high-end phones. Your phone usually comes with a SIM-eject tool. Just insert it in the hole beside the tray and push it in firmly but gently; the tray should pop out enough for you to pull it out the rest of the way.

If you’re unable to eject the tray, don’t force it, or you might break the tool inside the hole or the tray itself. You may need to seek help if necessary. After the tray has popped out, align the new card’s notch with the corner of the tray, and rest it in the tray. It will fit only one way due to the notch.

Phones with Internal SIM Card Slots

If you have a phone that requires the removal of the battery compartment, you need to pry off the rear cover in a gentle manner using your fingernail or a plastic opening tool. Then take battery out by inserting your finger into the recess at the bottom, and lift it upward.

For some phones, you’ll need to remove the microSD card first from its slot to access the SIM card slot. If you have a dual SIM phone, the bottom slot is usually the primary slot. If you’re replacing an old SIM card, there a few common ways to remove it. Place your finger on the SIM card, and slide it out while pressing down gently. If that doesn’t work, it may be spring loaded, in which case you’ll use the tip of your finger to press the card in, which will allow it to pop out. Others have a little metal “door” on top that you slide towards the hinge, and then lift open.

To install the new SIM card, for slide out and spring loaded slots, slide the new card in until it stops or clicks, respectively. If it has a door, align the new card’s notch with the corner on the tray, place it in, close the door, and slide the door to its “locked” position. In all cases, it will only fit in one way.

Put It Back Together

The final step of the process is to put your phone back together. For newer phones, just push the SIM card tray back in, making sure the SIM card stays on the tray. It’s as simple as that and you’re done.

For older versions, be sure to reinstall battery and pop the back on. Make sure the rear cover has fit firmly and then turn on the phone.

Activating Your SIM Card

If you’re using a device from another service provider, you’ll need to contact the provider to unlock the device. It’s only after unlocking it that you’ll be able to use the device with your new SIM card. Some devices come unlocked from the factory, which will make things easier.

For example, if you want to use a Teltik SIM card in an AT&T phone, you can stop by a local store or contact support to unlock the phone.

If you have an unused SIM card, you can activate and use that with our service. To activate the SIM card, call us at 888-406-2838.

Fixing SIM Card Errors

Occasionally, you might run into problems with your new SIM card or device. For example, after turning on your phone, you can see errors such as “Contact your service provider,” “Insert SIM,” “Invalid SIM,” or “Unregistered SIM.”

If you’re using a carrier branded device (when you turn the phone on it shows the logo of a service provider), make sure it’s unlocked. You can contact the original phone provider to unlock it. In some cases, simply turning off the phone and then turning it on can fix the error.

For the “Insert SIM” error, it might be that the card’s metallic chip isn’t aligned well with the metallic contacts in the slot. You can simply remove the SIM card and re-insert it. “Unregistered SIM” error means you haven’t activated your new SIM card, and doing so should clear it.

For network errors, you can perform a manual network selection to register your SIM to the network. Alternatively, you can try moving your new SIM card to a friend’s Teltik phone to determine if your card is working.

Final Thoughts

Moving to a Teltik means taking advantage of the cost-effective packages we offer. But the move isn’t complete until you have registered your SIM card and inserted it in your phone.

To insert a SIM card successfully, you need to understand the type of phone you have and its ideal SIM card size. New devices mostly use the nano-SIM card, which is the smallest SIM. Your SIM card can also be easily moved from your current device to another compatible device.

For extra security, you can set a SIM card pin once you have inserted the card successfully, which will prevent people from using your SIM card if it’s stolen. Keep in mind that your SIM card will request the PUK code if you enter the incorrect PIN multiple times. If you enter an incorrect PUK code 10 times, the SIM card will be blocked, and you’ll need to replace it.

Now, all that’s left to do is enjoy your shiny new Teltik plan! And remember, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at 888-406-2838.

The post How To Insert A SIM Card appeared first on Teltik.

Even better, tools and apps, such as Find My Phone, leverage the power of GPS to help you find your phone’s location, lock it, or delete data. Just type “locate my phone” on Google, and you’ll be amazed at the options you have for tracking your mobile phone.

To make things easier for you, here is a simple guide for tracking a lost phone and possibly recover it.

Find Your Phone

The moment you realize you’ve lost your phone, you can borrow a friend’s phone to call your phone. It’s possible that you may have misplaced it in your house or the office. Or, you can simply retrace your steps to find it. Try remembering the last place you had it and what you were doing at that very moment.

If the phone is in Do Not Disturb or silent mode, it’s likely that it won’t ring. But there’s a workaround for this scenario. You can easily text your phone to get the location. A great app you can use is the Location SMS for Android, which lets you text ‘Where are you?’ to find your device.

Another option is to contact carrier, but they’re likely to direct you to the police. In some cases, they can replace your phone. If your phone had a dead battery, tracking it using GPS is not possible. You’ll need to determine the last known location of the device using iCloud or Android Device Manager.

If you have iPhone, log in to your iCloud account and activate “Notify Me When Found.” This setting sends you an email alert with the current device location when someone powers on your phone.

Find My Android

With an Android device, you can easily set up find my phone using your Google account. Visit Myaccount.google.com, and click the “Settings” tab. Scroll the page about midway down, and you should see the “Your Devices” section. Click on “Find a lost device” to locate your phone.

Or, if you already have an account, just search “where is my phone” on Google, and you should see “Find your phone” as the first result on the search result page. If you’re sure you have misplaced it, you can make phone ring at full volume.

With your account, you can remotely locate, ring, lock, or erase all data on your phone to prevent someone from accessing your contacts and information. Bear in mind that you might not be able to use Find My Device again after erasing your phone’s data.

Find My iPhone

It’s always advisable to set up Find My iPhone the moment you buy the device. The application is available for free on the App Store. With the app on your phone, you can use any iOS device to locate it and protect your data.

You must sign in with the Apple ID you use for iCloud to use the app. Then access the Lost Mode feature to turn on tracking, lock your device, and display a custom message on the screen. You can play a sound on your lost iPhone for two minutes at full volume, even if it’s set to silent.

While in the Lock Mode, you can also view the recent location history of the device.

It’s possible to get driving directions to your phone’s location using the app. It will also display your battery charge level. If you have iOS 9 or newer versions, you can view your current location and the location of your lost device on the same map.

If Your Phone Is Stolen

If you’re wondering what to do if your phone is stolen, then there are several approaches you can take.

Track Your Phone

The first step is to track down phone. You can do this yourself with an app or any tracking service that uses GPS to locate your phone. Such services and apps allow you to use a map to find the current or last known location of your device.

Alternatively, you can enlist the help of the police. They can track your phone using International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI). Every device has a unique IMEI, which can be quite effective in locating a lost phone.

Lock Your Phone

Once you have lost your device, be sure to lock phone remotely. For Android phones, you can easily do this using your Google Account via a web browser. You’ll only need your email to access your account.

If you have an iOS device, the Find My Phone app is useful in locking your phone. You can use any iOS device that has the app to access your account and lock your lost phone. Remember to add a custom message just in case the person who finds the phone is willing to return it to you.

Erase Your Phone Data

If you’re unsure about finding your phone, then wipe phone remotely to protect your data. Both iOS and Android devices allow you to remotely erase all the settings and content on your lost device.

Use Find My Phone to wipe your iOS device’s data and Android Device Manager to delete your Android phone’s content. Erasing the data can protect you from identity theft and blackmail.

In The Future

There are several steps you can take to avoid losing your phone in the future. First, you might ask, “Can I register my phone?” Well, there are services that allow you to register your phone’s IMEI number. You can contact your carrier to find out if they offer the service.

Phone registration can help to prevent someone else from using your phone when it’s still registered under your details.

You need to take precautions when in public places or events to avoid losing your phone. Use a strong screen password that’s hard to crack. Always activate your GPS anytime you’re away from home and use a “find my phone” app to locate and protect your device.

It’s also recommended to attach a note to your phone. Just in case you drop it, an honest person can get it back to you if you have a note with contact details. Remember always to back up your contacts, videos, and photos to avoid losing them if your phone gets lost.

You can also use a phone tracking service to locate and retrieve your phone. Bear in mind that some of these services can be costly. However, they can help you keep track of your lost phone before you find the means to retrieve it.

Final Thoughts

For some people, losing a phone is simply a nightmare. But it doesn’t have to be when you take precautions like recording your device’s IMEI and installing a “find my phone” app. These two measures can be useful in tracking your phone and possibly retrieving it.

If you recover your phone, it’s advisable to wipe it just to be safe. Someone might have installed a malicious app or spyware. Be sure to factory reset before using the phone.

The post How To Track A Phone appeared first on Teltik.