Technology

Vanishing Act: Unraveling the Privacy Woes of Nothing Chats

Published

3 years ago

November 20, 2023

Fred Wilson

Vanishing Act: Unraveling the Privacy Woes of Nothing Chats

Introduction

Hi, I’m Fred Wilson, a freelance tech journalist and a privacy advocate. I have been writing about the latest trends and developments in the digital world for over a decade. I have also been using Nothing Chats, a popular app that lets users send messages that disappear after a few seconds, for a while. I was intrigued by the idea of having ephemeral conversations that leave no trace. But as I dug deeper into the app’s features and policies, I realized that there is more to the story than meets the eye. In this article, I will share with you some of the privacy issues and risks that Nothing Chats poses to its users, and what you can do to protect yourself.

What is Nothing Chats?

Nothing Chats is a mobile app that allows users to send text, photo, video, and audio messages that self-destruct after a preset time, ranging from one to ten seconds. The app claims to offer a fun and secure way to communicate with friends, family, and strangers, without leaving any digital footprint. The app has over 500 million downloads and is especially popular among young people who value their privacy and want to avoid the consequences of having their messages exposed or leaked.

How does Nothing Chats work?

Nothing Chats works by encrypting the messages on the sender’s device and sending them to the recipient’s device, where they are decrypted and displayed. The messages are then deleted from both devices and the app’s servers after the timer expires. The app also notifies the sender if the recipient takes a screenshot or tries to save the message. The app does not store any metadata, such as the sender’s and recipient’s identities, locations, or timestamps, on its servers. The app also does not require users to provide any personal information, such as their name, email, or phone number, to create an account. Users can simply choose a username and a password, and start chatting with anyone who has the app.

What are the privacy issues and risks of Nothing Chats?

Nothing Chats may seem like a safe and private way to communicate, but there are several privacy issues and risks that users should be aware of. Here are some of them:

The messages are not really deleted

Even though the messages are supposed to disappear from the devices and the servers, they may still be recoverable by using forensic tools or hacking techniques. For example, a researcher found that the app’s Android version stored the deleted messages in a hidden folder on the device, which could be accessed by anyone with physical access to the device or by malware. Another researcher found that the app’s iOS version cached the deleted messages in the device’s memory, which could be extracted by jailbreaking the device or by using a USB connection. Moreover, the app’s servers may retain copies of the messages for backup, legal, or regulatory purposes, which could be accessed by the app’s employees, law enforcement, or hackers.

The messages are not end-to-end encrypted

Nothing Chats claims to use encryption to protect the messages, but it does not use end-to-end encryption, which means that only the sender and the recipient can read the messages. Instead, it uses transport encryption, which means that the messages are encrypted only while they are in transit between the devices and the servers. This means that the app’s servers can decrypt and read the messages, and so can anyone who intercepts or compromises the servers. In fact, the app’s privacy policy states that it may “access, review, copy, and delete” the messages for various reasons, such as to comply with legal requests, to enforce its terms of service, or to improve its services.

The app collects and shares user data

Nothing Chats may not require users to provide any personal information, but it still collects and shares user data with third parties, such as advertisers, analytics providers, and social media platforms. According to the app’s privacy policy, it collects data such as the device’s model, operating system, IP address, browser type, language, and location. It also collects data such as the number of messages sent and received, the duration of the chats, the frequency of the app’s usage, and the types of content shared. It also uses cookies, web beacons, and other tracking technologies to collect data about the user’s online activities, preferences, and interests. It then shares this data with third parties for various purposes, such as to deliver targeted ads, to measure the app’s performance, to provide social media features, or to comply with legal requests.

The app exposes users to cyber threats

Nothing Chats may offer a fun and secure way to communicate, but it also exposes users to cyber threats, such as phishing, malware, spam, scams, and cyberbullying. For example, users may receive messages from strangers or bots that try to trick them into clicking on malicious links, downloading infected files, or revealing personal or financial information. Users may also receive messages that contain inappropriate, offensive, or harmful content, such as pornography, violence, or hate speech. Users may also be harassed, threatened, or blackmailed by other users who may have taken screenshots or saved the messages. The app does not have any moderation or reporting features, which means that users have no way to report or block abusive or suspicious users.

How to protect yourself when using Nothing Chats?

Nothing Chats may not be as private as it claims, but there are some steps that users can take to protect themselves when using the app. Here are some of them:

Be careful about what you send and who you send it to

The most important rule of using Nothing Chats is to never send anything that you would not want to be seen by anyone else. Remember that the messages are not really deleted, and that they can be accessed by the app’s servers, law enforcement, hackers, or anyone who has access to your device. Also, be selective about who you chat with, and avoid chatting with strangers or people you do not trust. Do not share any personal or sensitive information, such as your name, email, phone number, address, bank account, or credit card details.

Enable security features on your device

Another way to protect yourself when using Nothing Chats is to enable security features on your device, such as a password, a PIN, a fingerprint, or a face lock. This will prevent unauthorized access to your device and your messages. You should also update your device’s operating system and apps regularly, and install a reputable antivirus and firewall software. This will protect your device from malware, viruses, and hackers.

Disable or limit the app’s permissions

Nothing Chats may ask for various permissions to access your device’s features, such as your camera, microphone, contacts, location, or storage. You should disable or limit these permissions, as they may compromise your privacy and security. For example, you can disable the app’s access to your location, as it may reveal your whereabouts to the app or to other users. You can also limit the app’s access to your storage, as it may store the deleted messages in a hidden folder on your device.

Use a VPN or a proxy

Nothing Chats may collect and share your IP address, which may reveal your location and identity to the app or to third parties. You can use a VPN or a proxy to hide your IP address and encrypt your internet traffic. This will make it harder for the app or anyone else to track or monitor your online activities.

Picture by: https://apkgosu.com/en/nothing-chats

Conclusion

Nothing Chats is a popular app that lets users send disappearing messages. It claims to offer a fun and secure way to communicate, without leaving any digital footprint. However, as this article has shown, there are several privacy issues and risks that Nothing Chats poses to its users. The messages are not really deleted, they are not end-to-end encrypted, the app collects and shares user data, and the app exposes users to cyber threats. Users should be aware of these issues and risks, and take steps to protect themselves when using the app. Users should also consider using alternative apps that offer more privacy and security, such as Signal, Telegram, or Wickr.

Table: Comparison of Nothing Chats and other messaging apps

Feature	Nothing Chats	Signal	Telegram	Wickr
Disappearing messages	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
End-to-end encryption	No	Yes	Optional	Yes
Metadata collection	Yes	No	Yes	No
User data collection	Yes	No	Yes	No
User data sharing	Yes	No	Yes	No
Screenshot notification	Yes	No	No	No
Moderation and reporting	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Privacy policy rating	D	A	C	A

Author

Fred Wilson

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Technology

Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E? 10 Fixes That Actually Work

Published

2 weeks ago

October 7, 2026

adamsmithh

Seeing Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E can be frustrating, especially when the printer suddenly stops working during an important print job. This error may appear on the printer display or computer and can be associated with temporary system glitches, communication problems, paper-feed issues, internal obstructions, firmware problems, or hardware-related faults.

Before assuming that the printer needs repair, try some basic troubleshooting. In many cases, restarting the printer, checking for obstructions, reconnecting cables, or updating the printer software can restore normal operation.

Below are 10 practical ways to troubleshoot Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E.

1. Restart the Epson Printer

Start with a complete restart. Temporary errors in the printer’s internal system can sometimes trigger an error code.

Turn off the printer and disconnect its power cable from the electrical outlet. If the printer is connected to a computer through USB, disconnect that cable as well.

Wait approximately two to five minutes. Reconnect the power cable directly to a wall outlet, switch the printer back on, and check whether the 0x9E error returns.

If the printer starts normally, try printing a test page.

2. Perform a Power Reset

If a normal restart doesn’t work, try a power reset.

Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord. With the printer disconnected from power, press and hold the power button for approximately 20 seconds. Release the button and leave the printer disconnected for another few minutes.

Reconnect the power cable and turn the printer on.

A power reset can clear temporary electrical or internal control errors that may interfere with normal printer operation.

3. Check for Jammed Paper

A small piece of paper inside the printer can sometimes cause unexpected operational errors.

Turn the printer off before inspecting it. Check the input tray, output area, rear access area, and other accessible paper paths. Remove any visible jammed or torn paper carefully.

Avoid pulling paper aggressively because small pieces may tear off and remain inside the machine.

Once the paper path is clear, reload the paper correctly and restart the printer.

4. Look for Foreign Objects

Paper isn’t the only thing that can interfere with the printer’s internal mechanisms. Small objects such as labels, paper clips, dust buildup, or scraps of paper may obstruct moving components.

With the printer powered off and unplugged, inspect accessible areas using adequate lighting.

Do not force or disassemble internal components. If you notice an object that cannot be safely reached, professional servicing may be a better option.

5. Check the Ink Cartridges

Incorrectly installed or poorly seated cartridges may cause some printers to behave unexpectedly.

Open the cartridge access area according to your printer model’s normal procedure. Check whether each cartridge is properly installed.

If necessary, remove and reinstall the cartridges carefully. Make sure they click or sit securely in their designated positions.

Restart the printer afterward and see whether Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E disappears.

6. Inspect the Printer Connections

Communication problems between the printer and computer can sometimes complicate troubleshooting.

For a USB printer, disconnect and reconnect the USB cable. Try another USB port if one is available. Avoid using an unpowered USB hub while diagnosing the problem.

For a wireless printer, verify that the printer and computer are connected to the intended network. Restarting the router may also help if other devices are experiencing connectivity problems.

After restoring the connection, send a simple test document to the printer.

7. Clear the Print Queue

A corrupted or stuck print job can prevent normal printing even after the printer itself has recovered.

Open the printer queue on your computer and cancel pending documents. Restart both the printer and computer before attempting another print job.

If the printer works normally afterward, the problem may have been related to the previous print job rather than a persistent hardware fault.

8. Update or Reinstall the Printer Driver

Outdated, corrupted, or incompatible printer software can cause communication and printing problems.

Check which Epson printer model you own and make sure the correct driver is installed for your operating system. If the driver appears damaged or the problem started after a software change, uninstalling and reinstalling the appropriate printer software may help.

Restart the computer after installation and reconnect the printer.

Then print a test page to determine whether the error has been resolved.

9. Check for Firmware Updates

Firmware controls many of the printer’s internal functions. In some circumstances, updating the firmware can resolve known operational problems.

Check whether an appropriate firmware update is available for your exact printer model. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and keep the printer connected to a reliable power source throughout the update.

Never interrupt a firmware installation by switching off or unplugging the printer.

After the update is complete, restart the printer and check its status.

10. Consider an Internal Hardware Problem

If Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E remains after basic troubleshooting, an internal mechanical or electronic fault may be involved.

Possible trouble areas can include sensors, carriage mechanisms, paper-feed components, internal electronics, or other model-specific parts. The exact meaning of an error can vary by printer model, so avoid replacing components based solely on a generic error-code description.

At this point, check the documentation for your exact Epson model or have the printer professionally inspected.

What If Epson Error Code 0x9E Keeps Returning?

An error that disappears temporarily but repeatedly returns deserves additional attention. Note when the problem occurs. For example, determine whether it appears immediately after startup, while feeding paper, when beginning a print job, or after the printer has operated for several minutes.

This information can help distinguish between software, connectivity, paper-feed, and internal hardware problems.

You should also avoid repeatedly forcing the printer to operate if you hear grinding, clicking, or other unusual mechanical noises.

Final Thoughts

Epson Printer Error Code 0x9E does not always mean that the printer has permanently failed. Begin with simple troubleshooting: restart the printer, perform a power reset, inspect the paper path, check the cartridges, verify connections, and clear pending print jobs.

You can then check the printer driver and firmware if the problem continues. If the Epson Error Code 0x9E persists after these steps—particularly when accompanied by unusual noises or mechanical problems—the printer may require model-specific diagnosis or professional servicing.

Following the troubleshooting steps in order can help you identify the cause without making unnecessary changes to the printer.

Author

adamsmithh

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Business

Stratbeans Custom eLearning Development for Organisations

Published

3 weeks ago

October 3, 2026

Sumit

Some organisations may need a dedicated LMS for employee onboarding and compliance training. Others may require advanced assessments, certifications, analytics, integrations and structured learning paths. For organisations with highly specific requirements, a standard off-the-shelf platform may not provide the flexibility they need.

This is where Stratbeans brings its expertise in custom eLearning development and corporate learning technology.

Rather than asking organisations to adapt their training processes to a fixed platform, Stratbeans focuses on understanding the organisation’s learning requirements first and developing or configuring solutions around them.

A Corporate Dedicated LMS Built Around Organisational Needs

Every organisation approaches learning differently.

A growing company may need a straightforward platform to manage employee training, courses and assessments. A large enterprise may need a more comprehensive learning ecosystem supporting multiple departments, user groups, certifications, compliance programmes, reporting and integrations.

There can also be organisations with unique workflows that require capabilities beyond a conventional LMS.

A corporate dedicated LMS can help address these requirements by creating a learning environment that is aligned with the organisation rather than relying entirely on a standardised approach.

Stratbeans works with organisations to understand these requirements and provide learning solutions that can evolve as their workforce and business needs change.

Bytecasting LMS – A Structured Approach to Corporate Learning

For organisations looking for a practical and structured learning environment, Bytecasting LMS provides capabilities for managing digital learning across an organisation.

The platform can support areas such as course management, learner administration, assessments and reporting, giving organisations a centralised environment for managing employee learning.

For companies beginning their digital learning journey or looking to bring existing training programmes onto a dedicated platform, Bytecasting LMS provides a foundation for structured corporate learning.

Bytecasting Evolve – For Growing Learning Requirements

As organisations expand, their learning requirements often become more complex.

Bytecasting Evolve is designed for organisations that need a broader learning environment capable of supporting evolving training requirements. It can help organisations manage learning content, users, assessments, reporting and learner experiences within a more comprehensive framework.

The focus is not only on delivering courses but on creating a learning ecosystem that can grow alongside an organisation’s workforce and business requirements.

ATUM LMS – A More Customised Learning Environment

Not every organisation can work effectively with a conventional LMS structure.

ATUM LMS is designed for organisations looking for greater flexibility and a more tailored approach to their learning environment. Depending on organisational requirements, the platform can be adapted to support specific learning and operational needs.

This approach can be particularly relevant for businesses that have established processes, specialised training structures or requirements that do not fit neatly into a standard LMS model.

Custom eLearning Development for Specific Business Requirements

An LMS is only one part of a corporate learning ecosystem. Organisations may also require customised learning modules, assessments, integrations, workflows, dashboards and other digital learning components.

Through its custom eLearning development capabilities, Stratbeans works with organisations to create learning solutions around their specific requirements.

This approach can include understanding existing learning processes, identifying technology gaps and developing digital learning experiences that align with organisational objectives.

The result is a more flexible approach to corporate learning, where technology can support the way an organisation actually operates.

One Organisation, One Learning Need

There is no universal approach to corporate learning.

A startup, a manufacturing company, a large enterprise and a professional services organisation may all have very different training requirements. Even organisations within the same industry can have different workforce structures, compliance needs, learning processes and technology environments.

That is why the focus of a dedicated corporate LMS platform should not simply be on the number of features available. It should also be on how effectively those features address the organisation’s actual learning requirements.

With Bytecasting LMS, Bytecasting Evolve and ATUM LMS, along with its custom eLearning development capabilities, Stratbeans offers organisations different ways to build and manage digital learning based on their specific requirements.

Whether an organisation is beginning its digital learning journey, expanding an existing employee training program or developing a more customised learning ecosystem, Stratbeans’ approach remains centred on the same principle: build the learning solution around the organisation, rather than forcing the organisation to fit the platform.

Final Thoughts

The eLearning content development landscape in India offers plenty of options, from large learning providers to specialised custom development companies.

The right choice ultimately depends on what you’re trying to achieve. If you’re looking for a partner that combines custom eLearning content development with corporate learning and LMS capabilities, Stratbeans is one company worth exploring.

Because good eLearning isn’t simply about creating an online course. It’s about creating a learning experience that people understand, remember and can actually use at work.

At the end of the day, the goal is simple: create learning that is useful, engaging and built around the people who will actually use it.

Author

Sumit

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Business

What is a smart water management system and how does it work?

Published

3 weeks ago

October 3, 2026

bestedgetech

Water is one of the most important resources for homes, businesses, industries, and cities. However, managing water efficiently can be difficult when systems depend on manual readings and traditional monitoring methods. Water leaks, high consumption, equipment problems, and unexpected usage can increase costs and lead to water waste.

A smart water management system uses connected devices, sensors, software, and data analytics to monitor and manage water usage more efficiently. With technologies such as IoT device management and IoT gateways, organizations can collect real-time water data and use it to make better decisions.

What Is a Smart Water Management System?

A smart water management system is a technology-based solution that helps monitor, control, and optimize water usage.

It can collect information such as:

Water consumption
Flow rate
Pressure levels
Tank levels
Leakage conditions
Water quality parameters
Equipment performance
Usage patterns

Instead of depending only on manual meter readings, smart systems can automatically collect and transmit data. This makes it easier to understand how water is being used and identify problems quickly.

Smart water management can be used in residential buildings, commercial properties, factories, farms, hospitals, hotels, municipalities, and other facilities.

How Does a Smart Water Management System Work?

A smart water management system generally works through a combination of sensors, meters, IoT devices, IoT gateways, communication networks, and cloud or monitoring platforms.

The process can be divided into several simple steps.

1. Water Data Is Collected

Smart meters and sensors are installed at important points in the water network. These devices measure different parameters depending on the requirements of the facility.

For example, a smart water meter can measure the amount of water being consumed. Flow sensors can monitor the movement of water through pipes, while pressure sensors can identify unusual pressure changes.

The collected information provides a clear view of water usage.

2. IoT Devices Send the Data

The sensors and smart meters generate data at regular intervals. IoT devices help collect this information automatically.

This reduces the need for workers to visit every location and record readings manually.

For example, a building can use connected water meters to record the consumption of different floors or units. The data can then be sent to a central monitoring system.

3. IoT Gateway Connects Devices

An IoT gateway plays an important role in connecting field devices with the central platform.

Water sensors and meters may use different communication technologies and protocols. The IoT gateway can collect information from these devices, process it, and send the required data to a cloud or server platform.

The gateway can also help with:

Device communication
Data processing
Protocol conversion
Local data storage
Security
Remote monitoring

This makes the IoT gateway an important part of a connected water management architecture.

4. Data Is Transmitted to a Platform

After the data is collected and processed, it can be transmitted through available communication networks.

Depending on the application, systems may use technologies such as cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, LoRaWAN, or other communication methods.

The information can then reach a centralized software platform where users can view and analyze water data.

5. Data Is Analyzed

Collecting water data is only one part of smart water management. The data must also be analyzed to identify useful information.

A monitoring platform can help users understand:

Where water is being consumed
When consumption is highest
Whether usage is increasing
Where unusual flow is occurring
Whether a possible leak exists
How different locations compare
Whether equipment is operating normally

Historical data can also help organizations identify long-term consumption patterns.

Role of IoT Device Management

Managing a large number of connected water devices can become difficult without proper tools. This is where IoT device management becomes important.

IoT device management allows organizations to monitor and manage connected meters, sensors, gateways, and other devices from a central system.

Important functions can include:

Device Monitoring

Organizations can check whether devices are online, offline, or experiencing communication problems.

Remote Configuration

Some connected devices can be configured remotely. This can reduce the need for physical visits.

Software and Firmware Updates

Connected devices may require firmware updates to improve performance, security, or functionality. Centralized management can make these updates easier to handle.

Device Security

IoT device management can support authentication, access control, and other security practices to protect connected infrastructure.

Device Performance

Organizations can monitor device health and identify equipment that may require maintenance or replacement.

As water networks become more connected, effective IoT device management becomes increasingly important.

Why Is an IoT Gateway Important?

An IoT gateway acts as a communication bridge between field devices and backend systems.

In a water management environment, many sensors may be installed across a large area. These devices may generate large amounts of data.

The gateway can collect this information before sending it to the central platform.

Modern gateways can also support edge processing. Instead of sending every piece of raw data to the cloud, some information can be processed locally.

For example, if a sensor detects an unusual flow pattern, the gateway may identify the event and send an alert immediately.

This can help reduce communication delays and unnecessary data transmission.

Smart Water Management for Leak Detection

Water leakage is one of the major challenges faced by buildings, industries, and public water networks.

A smart system can continuously monitor flow and consumption patterns. If water usage changes unexpectedly, the system can generate an alert for further investigation.

For example, if water continues to flow during a period when a building is normally inactive, the system may identify the unusual activity.

Early detection can help organizations investigate possible leaks before they result in significant water loss.

Smart Water Management in Industries

Industries often use water for manufacturing, cooling, cleaning, processing, and other operations.

A smart water management system can help industrial facilities understand where water is being used and how much is being consumed.

Connected monitoring can be applied to:

Production areas
Cooling systems
Water treatment plants
ETP and STP systems
Storage tanks
Process water lines
Utility areas

This information can support better resource planning and help industries identify opportunities to reduce unnecessary consumption.

Smart Water Management in Buildings

Commercial and residential buildings can also benefit from connected water monitoring.

Smart meters can monitor consumption at different levels, such as individual apartments, floors, or common facilities.

Building managers can use this information to understand usage patterns and investigate unusual consumption.

For large buildings, centralized monitoring can make water management easier and reduce dependence on manual meter readings.

Benefits of a Smart Water Management System

A smart water management system can provide several practical benefits.

Better Visibility

Real-time data gives organizations a clearer understanding of how water is being consumed.

Reduced Water Waste

Unusual consumption and potential leaks can be identified more quickly.

Lower Operational Effort

Automated data collection can reduce repetitive manual meter-reading activities.

Faster Problem Detection

Alerts can help teams identify unusual conditions and investigate them earlier.

Better Decision-Making

Historical and real-time data can support more informed water management decisions.

Improved Resource Efficiency

Organizations can identify inefficient consumption patterns and take corrective action.

Current Trends in Smart Water Management

Smart water management is becoming more connected and data-driven. Several technology trends are shaping the sector.

AI and Data Analytics

Artificial intelligence and advanced analytics can help identify unusual consumption patterns, predict demand, and support better decision-making.

Edge Computing

More processing is moving closer to connected devices. Edge-enabled IoT gateways can analyze selected data locally and respond faster to important events.

Real-Time Monitoring

Organizations are increasingly moving from periodic readings toward continuous monitoring and alerts.

Connected Smart Meters

Smart meters are becoming an important part of digital water infrastructure because they can provide more frequent and automated consumption data.

Cloud-Based Platforms

Cloud platforms can bring data from multiple locations into one centralized system, making it easier to monitor distributed water infrastructure.

Predictive Maintenance

Data from connected equipment can help identify potential performance issues before they become major operational problems.

The Future of Smart Water Management

The future of water management will depend increasingly on connected infrastructure and better use of data.

As more sensors, smart meters, and IoT devices are deployed, organizations will have access to more detailed information about their water networks. Combining this information with IoT device management, IoT gateways, analytics, automation, and AI can create more responsive water management systems.

The goal is not simply to collect more data. The goal is to turn that data into useful actions that improve efficiency, reduce waste, and support sustainable water use.

Conclusion

A smart water management system combines sensors, smart meters, IoT devices, communication networks, IoT gateways, and software platforms to monitor and manage water more effectively.

The system collects water data, transfers it through connected infrastructure, analyzes consumption patterns, and provides useful information for faster decision-making. IoT device management helps organizations maintain and monitor connected devices, while the IoT gateway provides an important link between field devices and central platforms.

From buildings and industries to cities and public infrastructure, smart water technologies can support better visibility, faster problem detection, efficient resource use, and more sustainable water management.