READ THE UPDATE AT THE BOTTOM
IS T-MOBILE IN VIOLATION CITIZEN'S PRIVACY AND POSSIBLY THE LAW
Recently it has come to attention that T-mobile is blocking tethering based on the type of browser that you use.
HOW THE OLD HACK WORKED
T-Mobile tethering can usually be subverted with a "rooted" phone by freezing or uninstalling the Tethering Manager app that usually prevents tethering unless you pay for it. Basically, the On/Off switch was in the users handset. Many users were using this trick and gaining tethering without paying for it until recently.
WHAT CHANGED ? ? ?
Apparently, T-Mobile decided to fix this by intelligently eavesdropping on all web communications of its customers looking for the field of data in your request which identifies the type of browser that you use.
Then based on your web browser (if you use a browser identified as one that does not generally run on a mobile device) they deny access by redirecting you to their page where the advertise their additional tethering service.
PRETTY SOLID EVIDENCE
So the question is how this can be proven. Simple grab one of those "rooted" phones that used to work, and tether them to one another them using wireless. Since the the phones are both is using a mobile browser, (the same browser) then T-Mobile wont be able to tell the difference so you can tether all you want. You are now using one phones internet connection through the other.
Now tether to a P.C. using wireless and use Chrome . . . if it works it will be for only a little while before you are denied service and redirected to T-Mobiles page advertising tethering services.
THE SIGNIFICANT QUESTIONS AT HAND
So now that we know that T-Mobile is monitoring our web communications what are the social and ethical implications. Their basically saying since your using our service we will look at what your doing when ever we want.
Really?
-What else are you looking at and logging T-Mobile?
-What does the law say about this?
-In the U.S. what does the F.C.C. have to say about this?
-Is this a moral practice?
-How do customers feel about being spied on by their trusted service provider?
-Why would we pay to unblock something that we have already purchased?
WHAT HAS T-MOBILE ACHIEVED BY DOING THIS
Its not like T-Mobile will actually achieve anything for long (A few days at most before a wide spread workaround). People smart enough to root their phones are also smart enough to get around this, as I will discuss this is not even an obstacle.
T-MOBILES GREAT UNSPOKEN ANNOUNCEMENT
All that T-Mobile achieved by doing this is tell the world a little more about how deeply they are watching what their beloved customers are doing at all times.
THE WORKAROUND
Please bear with me if you are technically inclined, I am trying to make this simple so it could be understood by all.
A simple app that intercept the request of the tethered device and intelligently scans and strips the field of data identifying the requesting browser as anything other that the stock authorized android browser then replaces this data to make it appear that is was the authorized stock mobile browser making the request.
The app would then make the appropriate changes to the data received for the request and make the appropriate changes for the tethered browser to understand and route if over to that browser.
That's it, undetectable tether again ! ! !
I'm looking forward to hearing your answers.
Thanks
* * * * * * * U P D A T E * * * * * * *
I have posted some easy workarounds from my posts below for easy access.
This is not meant for, or in any way advocating violating your TOS. This is to get third party browsers, Browsers running in Virtual Machienes on your phone . . . to work. However I cannot tell you what to do; so use your judgment. I am not responsible for any misuse of this information.
Method 1 Changing the User Agent String of your browser:
This plugin allows you to change the UAString on Chrome:
https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/djflhoibgkdhkhhcedjiklpkjnoahfmg <-Updated the dead link
A second option (In case you have issues with FireFox) would be:
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/fir...gent-switcher/
And apparently, Opera has a Built in UAString changer:
http://www.davidtan.org/how-to-chang...-agent-string/
If you use Internet Exploiter (excuse me) Explorer for some unknown reason:
http://www.enhanceie.com/ietoys/uapick.asp
Please note:
If you change your UAString to an Android Browser UAstring, then you will usually only get the Mobile versions of the web pages you view. For most people changing the UAString to the standard FireFox UAString seems to work fine.
Method 2 Using a VPN:
Many programs are available which provide VPN (Virtual Private Network) access to your home network. Using these tools an encrypted connection between your phone and home network will be established. As a result T-Mobiles eavesdropping techniques will not be able to decipher the data between you and your home network. Once a connection has been established with your home network, then your Internet requests can be relayed through your home Internet connection . . . If you don not have a home Internet connection, then there are many services available that provide an Internet gateway for you to VPN into.
Some of the available options include:
Using your home PC or MAC as your own VPN server:
http://www.openvpn.net
Using a power efficient home router as a VPN server, using either the factory firmware, and if unsupported using a custom firmware:
The Linksys WRT-54G Router, an affordable classic:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias=aps&field-keywords=wrt+54g
A powerful custom firmware supporting many routers:
http://www.dd-wrt.com/site/index
*******List of Issues As Reported by Many Customers*******
1. Many third party browsers and many browsers running in a virtualised operating system are being blocked and the innocent user is being accused of tethering,in some reported cases, even the ICS web browser.
2. T-mobile refuses to fix this by stating that the Web Browser is not supported (3rd party) when one of their main selling points is Multimedia and apps and a Working TCP / IP interface for applications and is seemingly deliberately casting blame on the third party app when in fact it is T-Mobile that is spoofing and redirecting the application due to overly paranoid, ineffective,abusive and despotic counter measure aimed at people who break TOS via tethering.
3. The privacy of the user is violated due to intelligent packet sniffing on their wireless internet communications. Furthermore, the scope of monitoring is unknown, and there are many privacy concerns such as why System Manager continues to run in the background even when the user opts out of Carrier IQ and how deep it is capable of monitoring.
4. Many people who signed contracts for data plans claim they never agreed to pay any extra fee for tethering and claim that they are no longer bound to T-Mobile's contract due to this violation.
5. People on prepay plans are now denied tethering when the allowance of tethering implied continued tethering service.
6. Some prepay customers claim they purchased a month of service, or perhaps more and were provided with tethering for only part of their service period before T-mobile stopped providing part of the service (tethering) that they had already sold without refunding the customers for the nonexistent service the had payed for.
7. It has been reported that when T-Mobile throttles users ,who have gone over their high speed bandwidth allowance, to 3G speeds customers are not throttled to the ITU spec 3G speed. Instead most people report being limited to an average of about 119kbps.
8. It is further reported that throttling seems to discriminate against users who purchase more high speed data allowance and have reached their limit. For instance, A customer who purchases 2GB of high speed data and has uses it all up may be capped to about 119kbps in contrast to a customer who purchased 5GB of data who may be capped to a much lower and nearly unusable speed. Many people have reported this sort of discriminatory throttling. So, it seems that the more you pay T-Mobile and buy services, then commit the horrible act of using the service that you have paid for, you are punished.
Of interest:
da-pharoah has brought to our attention a free app that is supposed to bypass tethering restrictions with no need for root access, proving once more that T-Mobile's measures were frivolous, and ineffective. Their measures don't prevent people who want to tether from doing so; that has been proven over and over again. Their methods only hurt and shame their valued innocent customers who are accused of tethering.
The app is called Foxfi and its free
Thank you da-pharoah
This test shows that T-Mobile may be trying to punish people who purchase higher bandwidth and actually use it.
The following screenshot is from a phone that is running a stock firmware and has deliberately, and legitimately used the full 5GB high speed allowance for the month.
As you can see on a throttled 5GB plan the connection seems to be, at best, about 60kbps. Please note that this is with a pretty good connection. Most people claim an average of about 119kbps on a throttled 2GB plan. Since this seems to be the case, this shows that T-Mobile is discriminating against their higher paying customers and is punishing them for using the full amount of bandwidth the purchased. It seems that the more you purchase and use the more you are punished.
It was reported by a customer care representative, that the throttling should bring a customer down to a speed, much less than 60kbps regardless of the type of plan, and that those experiencing higher speeds should feel "lucky."
The problem is that this 60k seems to only be acquired with an optimal signal level and while stationary. It is reported that most of the time the speed drops down so low and the latency becomes so high that almost all internet requests are timed out.
The aforementioned scenario would make the advertised unlimited internet access, in actuality, very limited, and the user of a throttled 5GB plan would then not be receiving the service that was advertised, or that they payed for. At that point the internet service is quite useless and nearly nonexistent, when in fact a working low speed internet service is advertised for those who have reached their high speed data cap.
UPDATE
This document is for information purposes only. I do not advocate violating your contract terms or any illegal activity. you assume full liability and responsibility for the use of this information.
Many people have reported to me that their tethering no longer works even after killing the tethering manager.
Many have asked me to look into this, here are my findings:
It seems that T-Mobile has implemented a new hidden APN in their ROMs. When you activate tethering, your connected devices seem to be routed through a different APN than your phone uses which is where the block is, if you have not paid the tax.
The answer:
A. For users:
Create a new APN name called "Tethering" and copy the information from your T-Mobile APN to it. There is no need to activate this APN. Immediately after doing so you should regain your full connection. Tested on a SGH-T989 (T-Mobile SGS 2) and reported to work.
B. Mostly for ROM authors:
Edit the appropriate configuration files and change all APNs (usually "epc.pcweb.com") to "epc.tmobile.com" or any other working APN such as MVNO APNs ("simple" . . .)
All test reports submitted to me report this is working and that my theory was accurate.
from: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=33287279
Threads like this have a sad history of going absolutely nowhere. On a side note, you need to become more familiar with the subject (no, those questions in Networking+PM were not enough)
The technologically inept usually (always) cry about privacy issues when it comes to similar topics. While ISPs and cell carriers have a habit of not caring at all about your privacy, tethering detection does not require a breach of anything you would consider private. Websites you visit get the same information - it's what gets you redirected to a "mobile" website.
To put it in simple terms, when you don't pay for tethering, this happens: Cell carriers look at the type of your browser's data request (user agent, in the case of T-Mobile USA). If it's a desktop browser, you get forwarded to the upsell page or you get a text message about it.
Your app idea is actually unnecessary as it's already possible to spoof user agent strings - but it's done by modifying the browser itself. Capturing every packet sent, checking for UAstring and modifying it would be completely unrealistic.
luftrofl said:
Threads like this have a sad history of going absolutely nowhere. On a side note, you need to become more familiar with the subject (no, those questions in Networking+PM were not enough)
The technologically inept usually (always) cry about privacy issues when it comes to similar topics. While ISPs and cell carriers have a habit of not caring at all about your privacy, tethering detection does not require a breach of anything you would consider private. Websites you visit get the same information - it's what gets you redirected to a "mobile" website.
To put it in simple terms, when you don't pay for tethering, this happens: Cell carriers look at the type of your browser's data request (user agent, in the case of T-Mobile USA). If it's a desktop browser, you get forwarded to the upsell page or you get a text message about it.
Your app idea is actually unnecessary as it's already possible to spoof user agent strings - but it's done by modifying the browser itself. Capturing every packet sent, checking for UAstring and modifying it would be completely unrealistic.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have been a UNIX system administrator for over 15 years. During this time I have come across many diffident people and opinions.
I personally think that packet inspection in any form is a violation of the consumers rights.
Furthermore, I don't care to tether at all. The issue surfaced when my Firefox browser in Ubuntu running on my smart phone began falsely claiming that I was tethering.
Further, many people who use ICS are reporting being redirected to the same website and accused of tethering.
Running an app in the phone to change the user agent string is also very feasible. There are already apps that do that, but they don't support wireless connections, just USB. If a linksys router from the year 2000 can do it with its limited processing power, then a low power phone by todays standards has no problem.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2
Your best bet would be to look at your TOS and read it closely. ISPs of all kinds reserve the right to monitor all data traffic on their net work. If tethering is not offered on the plan you have Legally you are in breach of your contract and can be sued. ATT does the same thing and this has been talked about to death.
zelendel said:
Your best bet would be to look at your TOS and read it closely. ISPs of all kinds reserve the right to monitor all data traffic on their net work. If tethering is not offered on the plan you have Legally you are in breach of your contract and can be sued. ATT does the same thing and this has been talked about to death.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you. I agree, but the issue is that this does not really prevent people (root users) from tethering, instead it prevents third party Web browsers from properly resolving DNS. Full blown browsers in ICS and virtualized machines are mistaken as tethered systems.
T-mobile's excuse is there is something wrong with the third party app and that the third party app is not supported or their responsibility.
The reality is that T-mobile's responsibility is to provide an industry standard TCP/IP connection for our third party apps, and there is nothing wrong with the app, their system is spoofing the app due to paranoid programming.
They did not sell us Android phones with the google play market because they don't support it. Why do they advertise access to apps, but once they sell you the phone, if its not going their way they all the sudden don't support compatibility.
I could understand not sporting a third party app but they can't use this as an ecxcuse to not support their own platform and justify messing up compatibility with Android apps due to their paranoia of people bypassing their tethering manager.
Further, what are the laws regarding packet inspection?
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2
Easy Workarounds
Disclaimer
This is meant to help those with issues they may be having running third party browsers on their phones. This information is not meant for the subversion of tethering detection by your service provider, and or the violation of your terms of service.
As was pointed out the User Agent String (UAString can be easily changed on the browser of choice. Although, a plugin is needed on chrome.
Apparently most versions of FireFox and Opera work fine, perhaps the UAStrings are the same as on the mobile versions?
This plugin allows you to change the UAString on Chrome:
Download link: http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...XUjalz&usg=AFQjCNED4rpi3tE0I2o90jlPHLkCKbHjtA
A second option (In case you have issues with FireFox) would be:
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/user-agent-switcher/
And apparently Opera has a Built in UAString changer:
http://www.davidtan.org/how-to-change-opera-user-agent-string/
If you use Internet Exploiter (excuse me) Explorer for some unknown reason:
http://www.enhanceie.com/ietoys/uapick.asp
Please note:
If you change your UAString to an Android Browser UAstring, then you will usually only get the Mobile versions of the web pages you view. For most people changing the UAString to the standard FireFox UAString seems to work fine.
I hope this help everyone out.
Another option to avoid thethering detection is using VPN. As long as your phone sends all data encrypted over the VPN, they won't be able to detect it.
Downside is, you need a VPN endpoint. This means you need to have a always-on device at home that can handle this OR you need to pay for a VPN account somewhere.
I was getting blocked untill i stopped using chrome.
No chrome = no block. Tmobile identifies the user agent string chrome uses.
Fludizz said:
Another option to avoid thethering detection is using VPN. As long as your phone sends all data encrypted over the VPN, they won't be able to detect it.
Downside is, you need a VPN endpoint. This means you need to have a always-on device at home that can handle this OR you need to pay for a VPN account somewhere.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is open source firmware for low power linksys routers that provides VPN functionality.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2
I wonder where the lines between illegal wiretapping and packet inspection are drawn.
On another note, I had my dolphin browser on my phone redirected to their ads because of the string I was using (iPad). They're doing a pretty shabby job of intercepting traffic accurately.
Vpn> I'd probably consider taxing them via exploiting data usage until I get them to sever the contract too.
All this is an effort to keep customers from using what they pay for, "unlimited" data.
We should probably answer back with a more serious response as a group, namely a coordinated effort to use every last byte of data transfer we're paying for each month. Frame the argument in terms consumers all understand. How much data/money are you wasting/giving away to Tmobile every month? You paid for it, be sure to use it! Tmo will love that.
Sent from Scott LaRock's TR808
Agreed. I think if enough of us are verbal about their methods we might be able to get something resolved.
Any suggestions?
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
you don't need a plugin to change the user agent on desktop chrome, you can do it from developer tools. this is how to do it on mac:
view->developer->developer tools->little settings icon on the bottom-right of the window->override user agent
I understand that there many methods of changing the UserAgenyString, but the whole point is the poor consumer who has paid for service and is not tethering is getting screwed for using a third party browser which is by no means a violation of the service agreement. We need something simple. An app . . . Something that someone with limited knowledge can use to keep from being ripped off.
All this because the phone company is paranoid someone will hook up hardware that THEY PAID FOR to ANOTHER DEVICE THAT THEY OWN and UTILIZE THE BANDWIDTH THEY BOUGHT without paying an extra 15 dollars tax.
What is the 15 dollar tax for? Does T-mobile power your phones processor? If so why do you pay a power bill? Does T-mobile preform voodoo to enable the phone THAT YOU OWN to route packets? Nooooo ! ! !
Its like back in the old days when the phone company used to make you pay for the phones you use and fine you if you had additional or "unauthorized" handsets plugged in.
This move is flat out, FRIVOLOUS ! ! ! RIDICULOUS ! ! ! ASININE ! ! ! and TYRANIC ! ! !
We- as consumers must come up with methods to use our third party browsers . . . Without being accused of tethering and as a result blocked, blamed, and shamed by a company were paying for service.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2
shnn2011 said:
I understand that there many methods of changing the UserAgenyString, but the whole point is the poor consumer who has paid for service and is not tethering is getting screwed for using a third party browser.
All this because the phone company is paranoid someone will hook up hardware that THEY PAID FOR to ANOTHER DEVICE THAT THEY OWN and UTILIZE THE BANDWIDTH THEY BOUGHT without paying an extra 15 dollars tax.
What is the 15 dollars for? Does T-mobile power your phones processor? If so why do you pay a power bill? Does T-mobile preform voodoo to enable your phone THAT YOU OWN route packets? Nooooo ! ! !
Its like back in the old days when phone companies used to make you pay for the phones you use and fine you if you had additional our "unauthorized" handsets.
This move is flat out, FRIVOLOUS ! ! ! RIDICULOUS ! ! ! ASININE ! ! ! and TYRANIC ! ! !
The whole point is to come up with a method to help consumers use their third party browsers . . . Without being accused of tethering and as a result blocked, blamed, and shamed.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The easiest thing would e for the browser developers to fix the issue. As long as it reports as a desktop client then they will see it as such and assume you are breaking your TOS. If the browsers reported it properly then it would not be an issue.
In the end what I have a feeling will happen is that data plans will increase in cost and have built in tethering. Even if you dont use tethering.
zelendel said:
The easiest thing would e for the browser developers to fix the issue. As long as it reports as a desktop client then they will see it as such and assume you are breaking your TOS. If the browsers reported it properly then it would not be an issue.
In the end what I have a feeling will happen is that data plans will increase in cost and have built in tethering. Even if you dont use tethering.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Many new mobile browsers are fullblown browsers and for this reason there are complications. I am told that even the full blown ICS browser is being blocked.
The browsers are reporting their User Agent String properly. T-mobile is interpreting the User Agent Strings with ignorance.
Prices should go down as technology progresses. I think that eventually providers will drop the frivolous taxing of tethering.
Sent from my SGH-T989 using Tapatalk 2
All this because the phone company is paranoid someone will hook up hardware that THEY PAID FOR to ANOTHER DEVICE THAT THEY OWN and UTILIZE THE BANDWIDTH THEY BOUGHT without paying an extra 15 dollars tax.
To true... ^^
S1mSyo said:
All this because the phone company is paranoid someone will hook up hardware that THEY PAID FOR to ANOTHER DEVICE THAT THEY OWN and UTILIZE THE BANDWIDTH THEY BOUGHT without paying an extra 15 dollars tax.
To true... ^^
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No they are worried that you will hook up a device and use the bandwith for a device that it was not intended for. I see posts like this all the time and no one bothers to read the TOS when they sign the contract. The TOS states that all data is for the device on the contract and no other with out a tethering plan.
zelendel said:
No they are worried that you will hook up a device and use the bandwith for a device that it was not intended for.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How is this worrisome? Seems to me they're more worried about the extra bucks they could be leeching from you by arbitrarily categorizing tethering data differently from other data.
thebobp said:
How is this worrisome? Seems to me they're more worried about the implications of such use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Think about it for a min. Most people are on Limited data plans. Then they tether to say a laptop (cause they saw they could on sites like this.) The laptop eats their data away in the blink of an eye. When he bill comes in the people are pissed and call the company to complain. They spend hours on the phone yelling at someone and making threats for something that was their fault. Then just to shut them up a manager may remove the charges. All of this cost the company money. Not to mention puts the company employees in a tuff spot. Either keep the Cx happy and remove the charges with risk of losing their job, or deal with someone that is pissed off enough though they have no right to be.
I have been in just that position many times over the past few years. Now I tell everyone. If you want to tether then get a plan for it.
zelendel said:
The laptop eats their data away in the blink of an eye.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're either kidding or severely exaggerating (unless you're referring to one of those tiny, tiny plans, which are designed to try to make you go over and get charged overages anyway).
Computer browsers may use more data than mobile browsers, but not by that many orders of magnitude. The fact that some mobile browsers even identify themselves as computer browsers is testament to this.
If you're talking about people going haywire by tethering and downloading gigabytes, then 1) they kinda deserve it, but 2) [and much more importantly] they can do it on the phone anyway, as demonstrated by the guy who legitimately used 150GB in a month.
Related
Has anyone tried Simple mobile? They have a $60 unlimited everything 4g plan. I hear they piggy back off the T-mobile towers and use the TMO 3G/4g network
So wouldnt coverage, signal, and service quality be just as good as if you were on T-Mobile?
If anyone has used them is their unlimited data truly unlimited or do you get throttled?
Edit: I just called Simple's CS department. They told me it was unlimited data. I asked if it was like T-Mobile's unlimited data where it gets throttled after 5gb and he said no, that it is really unlimited. I really want more confirmation about that before I switch. I mean REAL unlimited data, unlimited calling and texting for 60 bucks flat? And all of TMO's phones are compatible with it?? hmm cant beat that.. I emailed them as well to find out. I'll post when they reply
I have a friend who uses them, the only complaint he really haves is you don't get the T-Mobile Wi-Fi calling.
If you want to you can ask him some questions, he has been using it for a while now. www.twitter.com/neillund
MLIGN said:
I have a friend who uses them, the only complaint he really haves is you don't get the T-Mobile Wi-Fi calling.
If you want to you can ask him some questions, he has been using it for a while now. www.twitter.com/neillund
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know Neil Spoke to him, he said it works just as good as TMO except like what you said, no wifi calling.
I called them again and asked another agent. He said it is capped after a certain amount. I asked what that amount was and he couldnt tell me. Not very knowledgeable if you ask me He insturcted me to read the terms and conditions and gave me the section numbers (which were wrong) I fount this in their terms and conditions under data:
25. Additional Terms for Data Plans and Features
The following terms apply to your data plan or feature ("Data Plan"). To the extent any term in your Data Plan expressly conflicts with the general Terms and Conditions, which also apply to your service, the term in your Data Plan will govern. Please read your Data Plan carefully.
1. Permissible and Prohibited Data Uses
Your Data Plan is intended for Web browsing, messaging, and similar activities on your device and not on any other equipment. Unless explicitly permitted by your Data Plan, other uses, including for example, tethering your device to a personal computer or other hardware, are not permitted.
Examples of prohibited uses include but are not limited to: (a) server devices or host computer applications, including continuous Web camera posts or broadcasts, automatic data feeds, automated machine-to-machine connections or peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing applications that are broadcast to multiple servers or recipients, "bots" or similar routines that could disrupt net user groups or email use by others or other applications that denigrate network capacity or functionality; (b) as a substitute or backup for private lines or dedicated data connections; (c) any activity that adversely affects the ability of other users or systems to use either Simple Mobile's services or the network-based resources of others, including the generation or dissemination of viruses, malware or "denial of service" attacks; (d) accessing, or attempting to access without authority, the information, accounts or devices of others, or to penetrate, or attempt to penetrate, Simple Mobile's or another entity's network or systems; or (e), running software or other devices that maintain continuously active Internet connections when a computer's connection would otherwise be idle, or "keep alive" functions. For example, you cannot use a Data Plan for Web broadcasting, or for the operation of servers, telemetry devices and/or supervisory control and data or (f) engaging in atypical web usage behavior.
2. Protective Measures
To provide a good experience for the majority of our customers and minimize capacity issues and degradation in network performance we may take measures including temporarily reducing data throughput for a subset of customers who use a disproportionate amount of bandwidth. Additionally, in the event that a customer is in violation of the Permissible and Prohibited Data Uses listed above, we may reduce your data speed for the remainder of that billing cycle or terminate data service without notice or refund. We may also suspend, terminate, or restrict your data session, Plan, or service if you use your Data Plan in a manner that interferes with other customers' service, our ability to allocate network capacity among customers, or that otherwise may degrade service quality for other customers.
3. Downloadable Content and Applications
You can purchase Content and Applications (e.g., downloadable or networked applications, wallpapers, ringtones, games, and productivity tools) ("Content & Apps") for and with your compatible device. Some Apps that you can purchase with your device are not sold by Simple Mobile; for these Apps, you can identify the third party seller at the point of purchase. For these third party purchases Simple Mobile is not responsible for the App, including download, installation, use, transmission failure, interruption, or delay, or any content or website you may be able to access through the App. Any support questions for these Apps should be directed to the third party seller identified at the point of purchase. When you use, download or install an App sold by a third party seller, you may be subject to license terms between you and the third party seller and App developer. When you use, download, or install Content or Apps that you purchase from Simple Mobile, the Content or App is licensed to you by Simple Mobile and may be subject to additional license terms between you and the creator/owner of the Content or App. Whether purchased from Simple Mobile or a third party seller, any Content or App you purchase is licensed for personal, lawful, non-commercial use on your device only. You may not transfer, copy, or reverse engineer any Content or App, or alter, disable or circumvent any digital rights management security features embedded in the Content or App.
Simple Mobile is not responsible for any third party content or website you may be able to access using your device. You may encounter advertisements from other entities ("Third Party Ads") while you are browsing the Internet, or using an application on your device. Simple Mobile is not responsible for any Third Party Ads, or for any website or content that you may access by clicking on or following a link contained in a Third Party Ad.
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Over in the Vibrant forums, it was posted that it is 1GB. Not a throttle, but a cut off.... check that forum on XDA
rorycs said:
Over in the Vibrant forums, it was posted that it is 1GB. Not a throttle, but a cut off.... check that forum on XDA
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Click to collapse
Thanks, I just called their corp office. They told me the data is only meant to be used for browsing, downloading applications, messaging and email. That any heavy streaming, downloading or tethering or excessive use goes against their terms. They said they will either slow it down if it gets flagged for excessive use or turn it off completely. I asked ok, well how much data before it get's flagged. He said there is no number. They base it off the average use by customers. Pretty crappy if you ask me. So if you stream anything like you tube or anything at anytime you risk having your service slowed or turned off..
I've been using SM for 8 months. These are the services I use with my data plan:
Gtalk (moderate)
Dropbox (heavy)
Youtube (moderate)
Rom and application downloading (heavy)
Google Maps w/GPS (heavy)
Browsing (heavy)
Various turn-based game (moderate)
Picasa and Facebook photo uploading (heavy)
I have never experienced a throttle or termination of data services. I highly recommend them. I have no commercial interest or relationship with Simple Mobile or with anyone that does.
_atlien_ said:
I've been using SM for 8 months. These are the services I use with my data plan:
Gtalk (moderate)
Dropbox (heavy)
Youtube (moderate)
Rom and application downloading (heavy)
Google Maps w/GPS (heavy)
Browsing (heavy)
Various turn-based game (moderate)
Picasa and Facebook photo uploading (heavy)
I have never experienced a throttle or termination of data services. I highly recommend them. I have no commercial interest or relationship with Simple Mobile or with anyone that does.
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Click to collapse
How much data would you estimate you use a month? I read too that some people report being throttled after 1gb, some have said they have gotten it after 2gb
Anyone tried using a SIM from a Straight Talk phone? Their $45/mo unlimited plan seems like the best deal around, at least on paper.
is anyone here else having problems with an unlimited data plan now if you go over certain gigabytes your now having your connection speed limited to almost unworkable levels of internet speed??? When you call and complain about it they say they're not limiting your internet plan actually they are limiting you because if you go over a certain amount of data they limit your connection speed! in any english language or english dictionary if they say there is a limit on yourdata plan internet speed, that means there is a limit on your plan.... Does it not???
Sent from my Samsung Infuse 4 g
What speeds were you getting before you supposedly went over?
Well I live in orlando florida in my speech before that I would load this actual web page in about a couple of seconds now 15 maybe almost 60- 40 seconds to load the full page if it even load the images it all
Download speedtest app
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA App
How much data did u use before this happened??
Sent from my SGH-I997 using XDA App
I work at att and just curious what it took to get limited.
Sent from my SGH-I997 using XDA App
MikeyFTL said:
What speeds were you getting before you supposedly went over?
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And they stated to me directly that if you are considering be in the top 5 percent bracket of your internet usage in your area you will automatically I have your internet speed interupted because you're causing more server congestion!!! But they say if you get a tiered 4 gigabyte plan you wont have a cap on your internet speeds.
Keltisch WerWolf said:
And they stated to me directly that if you are considering be in the top 5 percent bracket of your internet usage in your area you will automatically I have your internet speed interupted because you're causing more server congestion!!! But they say if you get a tiered 4 gigabyte plan you wont have a cap on your internet speeds.
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Click to collapse
Of course they aren't going to cap speed in a tiered plan, hell I bet they boost those with tiered plans so they have a greater chance of accidentally going over. Tiered plans, unlimited plans with limited speeds, all a bunch of bs, tours why I don't care if we ever get lte, whats the use of all that speed when you can't even freaking use it.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
WIRELESS CUSTOMER AGREEMENT
6.2 What Are The Intended Purposes Of The Wireless Data Service?Print this section | Print this page
Except as may otherwise be specifically permitted or prohibited for select data plans, data sessions may be conducted only for the following purposes: (i) Internet browsing; (ii) email; and (iii) intranet access (including access to corporate intranets, email, and individual productivity applications like customer relationship management, sales force, and field service automation). While most common uses for Internet browsing, email and intranet access are permitted by your data plan, there are certain uses that cause extreme network capacity issues and interference with the network and are therefore prohibited. Examples of prohibited uses include, without limitation, the following: (i) server devices or host computer applications, including, but not limited to, Web camera posts or broadcasts, automatic data feeds, automated machine-to-machine connections or peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing; (ii) as a substitute or backup for private lines, wireline s or full-time or dedicated data connections; (iii) "auto-responders," "cancel-bots," or similar automated or manual routines which generate excessive amounts of net traffic, or which disrupt net user groups or email use by others; (iv) "spam" or unsolicited commercial or bulk email (or activities that have the effect of facilitating unsolicited commercial email or unsolicited bulk email); (v) any activity that adversely affects the ability of other people or systems to use either AT&T's wireless services or other parties' Internet-based resources, including "denial of service" (DoS) attacks against another network host or individual user; (vi) accessing, or attempting to access without authority, the accounts of others, or to penetrate, or attempt to penetrate, security measures of AT&T's wireless network or another entity's network or systems; (vii) software or other devices that maintain continuous active Internet connections when a computer's connection would otherwise be idle or any "keep alive" functions, unless they adhere to AT&T's data retry requirements, which may be changed from time to time. This means, by way of example only, that checking email, surfing the Internet, downloading legally acquired songs, and/or visiting corporate intranets is permitted, but downloading movies using P2P file sharing services, redirecting television signals for viewing on Personal Computers, web broadcasting, and/or for the operation of servers, telemetry devices and/or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition devices is prohibited. Furthermore, plans (unless specifically designated for tethering usage) cannot be used for any applications that tether the device (through use of, including without limitation, connection kits, other phone/smartphone to computer accessories, BLUETOOTH® or any other wireless technology) to Personal Computers (including without limitation, laptops), or other equipment for any purpose. Accordingly, AT&T reserves the right to (i) deny, disconnect, modify and/or terminate Service, without notice, to anyone it believes is using the Service in any manner prohibited or whose usage adversely impacts its wireless network or service levels or hinders access to its wireless network, including without limitation, after a significant period of inactivity or after sessions of excessive usage and (ii) otherwise protect its wireless network from harm, compromised capacity or degradation in performance, which may impact legitimate data flows. You may not send solicitations to AT&T's wireless subscribers without their consent. You may not use the Services other than as intended by AT&T and applicable law. Plans are for individual, non-commercial use only and are not for resale. AT&T may, but is not required to, monitor your compliance, or the compliance of other subscribers, with AT&T's terms, conditions, or policies.
http://www.wireless.att.com/cell-ph...TheIntendedPurposesOfDataServ&q_subTitle=What Are The Intended Purposes Of The Wireless Data Service%3F
That's retarded when your phone comes with YouTube and Netflix but whatever AT&T says....
Sent from my SGH-I997 using XDA App
But seriousley how much data did you use? I have a friend who has taken it up as a personal challange to get himself throttled lol, and if you could run some speed tests I would love to know how much they slowed you down!
Keltisch WerWolf said:
is anyone here else having problems with an unlimited data plan now if you go over certain gigabytes your now having your connection speed limited to almost unworkable levels of internet speed??? When you call and complain about it they say they're not limiting your internet plan actually they are limiting you because if you go over a certain amount of data they limit your connection speed! in any english language or english dictionary if they say there is a limit on yourdata plan internet speed, that means there is a limit on your plan.... Does it not???
Sent from my Samsung Infuse 4 g
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The amount of data, not the speed.
If you're DLing a hundred gigs a month, how can you expect to NOT be throttled?
Att will warn you of excessive data use before they throttle you.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App
I think its 5GB but can you confirm this??
Sent from my SGH-I997 using XDA App
vmatt said:
Att will warn you of excessive data use before they throttle you.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I997 using XDA App
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X2, somehow I get a feeling that you're speeds weren't throttled but rather are just running slow and some fool just assumed u got throttled. I get this feeling because it sounds as if you didn't expect this or know why it happened to you, and I would like to think the top 5% know who they are...
Edit: no offense meant to the o.p. if you really are throttled as I said, I just would like to think the top 5% know who they are
Sent from my SGH-I997 using xda premium
maxjivi05 said:
I think its 5GB but can you confirm this??
Sent from my SGH-I997 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's supposed to be the top 5% on the unlimited plan.
Sent from my SGH-I997 using xda premium
qouted my self instead of editing my bad...
theraffman said:
Of course they aren't going to cap speed in a tiered plan, hell I bet they boost those with tiered plans so they have a greater chance of accidentally going over. Tiered plans, unlimited plans with limited speeds, all a bunch of bs, tours why I don't care if we ever get lte, whats the use of all that speed when you can't even freaking use it.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
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Click to collapse
lol! i bet you are 100%correct
Tomdg07 said:
WIRELESS CUSTOMER AGREEMENT
6.2 What Are The Intended Purposes Of The Wireless Data Service?Print this section | Print this page
Except as may otherwise be specifically permitted or prohibited for select data plans, data sessions may be conducted only for the following purposes: (i) Internet browsing; (ii) email; and (iii) intranet access (including access to corporate intranets, email, and individual productivity applications like customer relationship management, sales force, and field service automation). While most common uses for Internet browsing, email and intranet access are permitted by your data plan, there are certain uses that cause extreme network capacity issues and interference with the network and are therefore prohibited. Examples of prohibited uses include, without limitation, the following: (i) server devices or host computer applications, including, but not limited to, Web camera posts or broadcasts, automatic data feeds, automated machine-to-machine connections or peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing; (ii) as a substitute or backup for private lines, wireline s or full-time or dedicated data connections; (iii) "auto-responders," "cancel-bots," or similar automated or manual routines which generate excessive amounts of net traffic, or which disrupt net user groups or email use by others; (iv) "spam" or unsolicited commercial or bulk email (or activities that have the effect of facilitating unsolicited commercial email or unsolicited bulk email); (v) any activity that adversely affects the ability of other people or systems to use either AT&T's wireless services or other parties' Internet-based resources, including "denial of service" (DoS) attacks against another network host or individual user; (vi) accessing, or attempting to access without authority, the accounts of others, or to penetrate, or attempt to penetrate, security measures of AT&T's wireless network or another entity's network or systems; (vii) software or other devices that maintain continuous active Internet connections when a computer's connection would otherwise be idle or any "keep alive" functions, unless they adhere to AT&T's data retry requirements, which may be changed from time to time. This means, by way of example only, that checking email, surfing the Internet, downloading legally acquired songs, and/or visiting corporate intranets is permitted, but downloading movies using P2P file sharing services, redirecting television signals for viewing on Personal Computers, web broadcasting, and/or for the operation of servers, telemetry devices and/or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition devices is prohibited. Furthermore, plans (unless specifically designated for tethering usage) cannot be used for any applications that tether the device (through use of, including without limitation, connection kits, other phone/smartphone to computer accessories, BLUETOOTH® or any other wireless technology) to Personal Computers (including without limitation, laptops), or other equipment for any purpose. Accordingly, AT&T reserves the right to (i) deny, disconnect, modify and/or terminate Service, without notice, to anyone it believes is using the Service in any manner prohibited or whose usage adversely impacts its wireless network or service levels or hinders access to its wireless network, including without limitation, after a significant period of inactivity or after sessions of excessive usage and (ii) otherwise protect its wireless network from harm, compromised capacity or degradation in performance, which may impact legitimate data flows. You may not send solicitations to AT&T's wireless subscribers without their consent. You may not use the Services other than as intended by AT&T and applicable law. Plans are for individual, non-commercial use only and are not for resale. AT&T may, but is not required to, monitor your compliance, or the compliance of other subscribers, with AT&T's terms, conditions, or policies.
http://www.wireless.att.com/cell-ph...TheIntendedPurposesOfDataServ&q_subTitle=What Are The Intended Purposes Of The Wireless Data Service%3F
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Click to collapse
So do you work for AT&T??????
Not to mention that, Im a Commercial Driver, and I listen to my siruis/xm app all day ( on the road ) not at home, and thats how I get such high usage,well up to last month it wasnt an issue and now it is, based on the statement by ATT in my area so if I cant connect to my cell tower (which is less than 2 miles away and can be seen in the distance with a clean view) cause I have no signal in my apt, how am I in the top 5% of my tower area???? here is the screenshot of previous question
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
is online shopping on android phones actually safe ...i am confused ..any views on this
That depends on what your security concerns are. For me, I think it is totally safe to buy things online with your phone. I would do just about anything but financial activities in this context. However, my answer is a bit loaded so now I need to explain that part a bit. Credit Cards have built in protections. If you check your statements and dispute all charges that you did not authorize, then shopping through your phone is completely safe. I have had tons of fraudulent activity on my credit cards and I haven't paid a single cent that wasn't my own charge. The catch here is that you run pretty much the same risk doing your shopping online through an ordinary computer. Granted, phones have terrible security. My real point here is that you should use your phone assuming you cannot trust it. In this case, I use my credit card fraud protection as my mitigation for an untrustable platform.
dipinv.2007 said:
is online shopping on android phones actually safe ...i am confused ..any views on this
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is risky, indeed. Luckily, you can do something to protect your safety online. Android has a lot of flaws and it's vulnerable to malware and viruses- more vulerable than your personal computer because it's an open system( in theory) with millions of unverified apps for Download.
My recommendations:
[Remember, there's no 100% guarantee/solution, but it's better than doing nothing at all!]
Avoid using open WiFi Hotspots( Starbucks, McDonalds, City Hotspots, etc.) if it's not an URGENT purchase.
However, sometimes you find yourself in a situation where you need to purchase something right away. When connected to public networks( again, Sturbucks, City Hotposts, etc) consider using a VPN service to encrypt your connection.
I don't want to start a war over which VPN provider is better, but PIA( Private Internet Access) is ultra cheap and reliable.
Why using a VPN? VPN connections, like L2tp IPsec PSK connections can encrypt your data, securing your connection from sniffing( Wireless network tapping/monitoring).
When shopping online use the shop's app rather than your Android browser. Using your browser can have catastrophic consequences. Your eyes can deceive you! Don't trust them.^ ^
When using your browser( Chrome, Android browser, etc) always check your connection to the shop's sing-in page - if it's unsecured( http websites) leave the page! The same goes for links. Make sure to check the URL address! Again, don't rely on your eyes, when using public hotspots. Why? In layman's terms: When you connect to the internet, your Android resolves IP's(URL's/websites) via DNS servers, which can be infected. If a Hotspot is infected and you search for, let's say, PayPal you might actually get somehwere else! Relying on URL's when shopping via Hotspots is a stupid idea! That's why, again, you should consider using a VPN, which encrypt's your traffic+ paid VPN's have a lower chance of getting infected since the folks working there regularly check their servers+ most VPN providers use secure DNS servers, which overide the Hotspot's default DNS settings.
When downloading apps verify the company's name and make sure it's an original app! Avoid using user-made apps to access your eBay/Amazon account! Stay away from unknown&unverified, hence untrusted Android markets.
Antivirus/anitmalware. Scan your phone frequently!
GOLDEN RULE: NOTHING IS BULLETPROOF!
I guess that's it for the average user. :cyclops:
The same applies for your personal computer.
Thanks guys !! great replies, sums it all up ...every one should follow this advice !! :good:
dipinv.2007 said:
Thanks guys !! great replies, sums it all up ...every one should follow this advice !! :good:
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Click to collapse
You're welcome. Have a good day/night/whatever! :silly:
Of course it is just make sure you are using https:// means secure server that encrypts your data
Of course it is just make sure if you install the official apps
One Question reagarding the apps: Are they using a safe connection to the server or might there be a securtiy problem?
Im talking about the "big player apps" like amazon, ebay, paypal etc.
I have always known that companies like google and facebook for example collect our data, web searches etc and sell this information for profit. Today, this has become an even bigger issue with what we see in the media with the nsa and other government organizations tapping into our devices and monitoring our usage. At the end of the day, most of us, myself included really dont have anything to hide, so it may not be a real issue. I have often thought that if anyone poked around in my pc or phone they would simply get bored as they are just full of geeky engineering files lol. The real thing for me is simply that it's an invasion of privacy and just not right. With that said, I find myself wanting to go the extra mile to make my pc and my phone completely private from outside sources taking my information, watching my web searches and seeing my data. My question is, is it possible to be 100% secure and private, and if not, how close can we get, and how? I have heard that VPN's can achieve this. Is this true? and if so are there any free secure VPN's for our android devices and or pc's that are really good? Do VPN's slow down our devices? Also, Is there a way when we delete android files to permanently delete them? I noticed when I flashed my rom, after doing the complete wipe that is still contains files from before the wipe.
(I know this isn't a pc forum, I only included the pc because it's relevant.)
Thank you all in advance.
There are no data retention laws in the United States. Meaning, if a data center does not want to hold any logs to their users' activity, they're not required by law to do so. Multiple countries are similar, which is why I recommend using Private Internet Access for your VPN. They have a client for PC and Android and they're really great. I've been using them for many years and have had no issues. And, if you're really wanting to remain "anonymous", you can pay for your VPN subscription using gift cards from popular outlets like Walmart, Starbucks, etc. And for search engines, I'd recommend DuckDuckGo, which doesn't log anything you search. For PC, I'd recommend disabling your IPv6 protocol in your router settings and getting uBlock Origin, HTTPS Everywhere, and PrivacyBadger. They're wonderful add-ons for Firefox or Chrome. uBlock Origin and PrivacyBadger can block WebRTC leaks which would leak your IP address and can be used to identify you. If you want more information, feel free to reply to my post and I'll help you out as much as I can.
Hoxic said:
There are no data retention laws in the United States. Meaning, if a data center does not want to hold any logs to their users' activity, they're not required by law to do so. Multiple countries are similar, which is why I recommend using Private Internet Access for your VPN. They have a client for PC and Android and they're really great. I've been using them for many years and have had no issues. And, if you're really wanting to remain "anonymous", you can pay for your VPN subscription using gift cards from popular outlets like Walmart, Starbucks, etc. And for search engines, I'd recommend DuckDuckGo, which doesn't log anything you search. For PC, I'd recommend disabling your IPv6 protocol in your router settings and getting uBlock Origin, HTTPS Everywhere, and PrivacyBadger. They're wonderful add-ons for Firefox or Chrome. uBlock Origin and PrivacyBadger can block WebRTC leaks which would leak your IP address and can be used to identify you. If you want more information, feel free to reply to my post and I'll help you out as much as I can.
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Click to collapse
Hoxic,
Thank you for all of the information. With the private internet access VPN on my PC and android, will that slow down anything like web surfing, uploads or downloads? I am limited to using Verizon's high speed DSL connection as they refer to it, (I refer to it as slowest speed connection lol) in my neighborhood and this is the only provider for me so it's already pretty slow compared to Fios and other broadband connections. I would hate to slow it down any more.
You mention to pay for these services using gift cards and such. Well as I mentioned, I do not have anything that I am actually worried about anyone seeing, this is simply my way of trying to protect my privacy so I wouldn't go that far but I am curious about that statement. Do you mean that using a VPN truly isn't private or is this just to remove any paper trail linking me to the use of a VPN provider? I have been using DuckDuckGo for several years already just to stop google from taking and selling my info. Weather it truly works or not I dont know but its a great search engine anyway so I figured why not use it.
Your advice to disabling IPv6 protocol in my router settings: I do not see anywhere in my router settings to do this so I googled it, and it looks like there's a way o do this in windows. Is that different that what you're advising? Also I read a windows blog on this and windows 10 says IPv6 is a mandatory part of Windows that they do not advise on disabling. Can you give me some more detail on this, and how to disable it, assuming the windows warning is bull.
Thanks for all of your help.
VPN Do you use one, do you notice ?
Yes I know why using a VPN is a good idea, hides you location.
Have thought about using one but a few concerns.
Price .... something like Express VPN is not free
Does a VPN slow your device ?
VPNs are great for privacy and bypassing location locked content. Recommend them for everyone especially if you are on public wifi networks a lot.
Does it slow your phone? No
Does it slow your connection? Slightly - depends on the vpn service and server you are connected to.
ExpressVPN is not the only VPN service out there. You can also look into Nord, PIA, CyberGhost, Tunnelbear.
FYI - Free VPNs aren't really free. They limit your bandwidth, show ads on connection and possibly do store some of that data being transferred. Best option is to go with a well known paid one. It is worth the $5-$15 per month for the privacy.
Hunter3U said:
VPNs are great for privacy and bypassing location locked content. Recommend them for everyone especially if you are on public wifi networks a lot.
Does it slow your phone? No
Does it slow your connection? Slightly - depends on the vpn service and server you are connected to.
ExpressVPN is not the only VPN service out there. You can also look into Nord, PIA, CyberGhost, Tunnelbear.
FYI - Free VPNs aren't really free. They limit your bandwidth, show ads on connection and possibly do store some of that data being transferred. Best option is to go with a well known paid one. It is worth the $5-$15 per month for the privacy.
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+1
I have been using VPN for years.
Performance impact hasn't been an issue since three or four phone generations ago.
It does have a small impact on battery usage.
Free VPN sucks. They rarely work when you need it, and when it does work the speed is all over the place.
Commercial VPN service quality varies depending on your ISP and how you plan on using it. The reputable VPN usually offers some kind of trial period so you can try them out and decide for yourself.
AstroDigital said:
VPN Do you use one?
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Yes. I concur with the above statements.
Phishing, have a lot of attacks yesterday for example "iTunes" sent a receipt for an expensive pack, they wanted me to get mad and click on the link..... I am not that stupid.
Netflix, if they trace a VPN well they can simply block access. They know I am Canadian from my login I am not sure how VPNs can get around Netflix content block.
Torrents, never done them
China I never plan on going
Tell me even still, money no object want do you recommend
Thanks guys, I do not think I will bother.
Reasons for VPN
You can not be traced, do not do torrents.
Hacking my security guy says sure in theory on open WiFi but he has not seen the happen
Get international websites Netflix, well some claim this is possible
If you ever visit a place like China
Not sure it is worth the money.
AstroDigital said:
Thanks guys, I do not think I will bother.
Reasons for VPN
You can not be traced, do not do torrents.
Hacking my security guy says sure in theory on open WiFi but he has not seen the happen
Get international websites Netflix, well some claim this is possible
If you ever visit a place like China
Not sure it is worth the money.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Some VPN services offer torrent protection.
2. My parents got phished using wifi at the library. I rather go offline than use public wifi.
3. Only some VPN can do Netflix. It's not trivial but mine does.
4. VPN is absolutely necessary for visiting China. It's the ultimate testing ground of VPN's technical ability. There are rumors that the reason some VPN can work flawlessly in China is because they are phishing agencies of Chinese government.
I am trying Express VPN, seven day trial.
So far no big deal.
Yep, I use IPVanish. Very fast, hardly notice a speed difference on downloads (but it is slightly slower, to be expected) and web traffic. It does nothing to the speed of my phone.
I use it when I use my banking apps, downloads and location blocking.
I have an Asus router with a VPN Server so free for me. I can connect to it when I'm out or even overseas. The IP isn't identified as a VPN service to any streaming service. I can use it along with some other trickery to prevent my cell carrier from throttling certain content including video or tethering. My way of taking back net neutrality.
Testing Express VPN, first day it sucked 10% battery life.
Slightly slower downloads is ok, but the battery life on the One Plus 7 Pro is not great.
larsdennert said:
I have an Asus router with a VPN Server so free for me. I can connect to it when I'm out or even overseas. The IP isn't identified as a VPN service to any streaming service. I can use it along with some other trickery to prevent my cell carrier from throttling certain content including video or tethering. My way of taking back net neutrality.
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Are you connecting using open vpn client?
Yes but PPTP with the built in Android VPN also works. I think OpenVPN can use custom ports so someone can't block VPN so easily.
Asus makes amazing Routers! Not quite as customizable as DDWRT but more reliable and they get regular updates.
VPN's are great for internet privacy!
I use VPN apps to protect my internet privacy from espionage. And I think you should too.
I've tried several FREE VPNs but to tell you the truth - they suck and they're slow!
Paid VPNs are much faster. It's better that you first go for a trial version and if you are satisfied with their performance then buy their services.
You shouldn't compromise on your internet safety especially if you make purchases.
I understand a lot of people in this forum buy phones online, and you definitely need protection when you are in the transaction process.
I would round off by suggesting that you should learn more about cybersecurity and internet privacy. I personally use PureVPN, they've been pretty good but everything has their downside, but overall they make you safe and that's what matters the most.
Today vpns are not as useful for privacy as all communication is generally already encrypted at the app level anyway. They are more useful for being able to route connections that are otherwise blocked.
larsdennert said:
Today vpns are not as useful for privacy as all communication is generally already encrypted at the app level anyway. They are more useful for being able to route connections that are otherwise blocked.
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Still they make it quite a lot harder for your provider to track your usage and for websites and e.g. Facebook trackers to track usage back to you.
You are correct. Your browsing history is obscured. You also need to make sure you are not still using your cell carriers DNS server with the VPN or you'll be just calling them back again.
the vpn provider can see what you are doing so you have to ask yourself if you can trust them, what country are them based in and what are the laws there, and if the risk is acceptable.
if not set up a vpn on you router if it supports it, or on your home pc, i trust my local ISP with local laws more than a random company in another country.
I use and recommend PIA. They have an abundance of servers around the world. I don't notice a big difference in loading speed for average web browsing. One account covers all my computers and devices. They do not log user activity which is the biggest advantage for me. The cost is quite reasonable if you subscribe for 1 or 2 years.
tperki said:
I use and recommend PIA. They have an abundance of servers around the world. I don't notice a big difference in loading speed for average web browsing. One account covers all my computers and devices. They do not log user activity which is the biggest advantage for me. The cost is quite reasonable if you subscribe for 1 or 2 years.
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Have you heard? PIA was bought out recently. Apparently the company that bought them are questionable at best. I still have some time left on my subscription but I am considering changing VPNs. I just love how easy PIA is.