Internet and Telecom

How the Loss of Net Neutrality Could Lead to Increased Censorship and Bias Online

Published

3 years ago

March 23, 2023

Sam Hopkins

As we scroll through our social media feeds, binge-watch shows on streaming platforms, or even read this blog post, it’s easy to forget the principles of net neutrality that make it possible. The internet has always been a sanctuary of free speech and open access to information for everyone. However, in recent years, the concept of net neutrality has come under threat as governments and corporations strive for more control over online content. With the repeal of net neutrality rules by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), many people are concerned that such action could lead to increased censorship and bias online. In this article, we will explore how losing net neutrality can affect us all and what steps we can take to protect our digital rights.

What is Net Neutrality?

Net neutrality is the principle that all data on the internet should be treated equally. This means that all web traffic should be treated without discrimination, and that ISPs (internet service providers) shouldn’t be able to favor certain websites or services over others.

The concept of net neutrality has been around for a while, but it came to the forefront of public consciousness in 2015 when the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) voted to repeal net neutrality. The repeal set off a series of protests from advocates and tech companies who argued that without net neutrality, ISPs would be able to discriminate against certain websites and services by restricting their access to bandwidth, slowing down their traffic, or even throttling it altogether.

There are a few potential consequences of repealing net neutrality. One is that ISPs could start charging sites different rates for faster access—something which critics say could lead to increased censorship and bias online. Another is that smaller websites might not be able to compete with bigger ones when it comes to accessing fast broadband speeds, which could lead to them going out of business.

There are also concerns about how repealing net neutrality will impact the future of the internet as a whole. Without strong protections in place, there’s fear that ISPs will start favoring their own content over other sites and services, leading to an overall decline in quality and diversity online.

The Effects of Net Neutrality on the Internet

Net neutrality is the principle that all web traffic should be treated equally, without preferential treatment or discrimination. The FCC repealed net neutrality in December 2017, leading to fears that the internet will become more censored and biased.

Internet providers could now give some websites an advantage over others by speeding up their traffic or charging more for access. This would allow those with money to gain an advantage over others, and could lead to censorship and bias against unpopular ideas.

Net neutrality has been thought to protect freedom of speech and democracy online, as it ensures that all voices are heard equally. Loss of net neutrality could lead to increased censorship and bias online, as providers can favour certain sites over others.

Why the Loss of Net Neutrality Could Lead to Increased Censorship and Bias Online

Net neutrality is the principle that all Internet traffic should be treated equally. Under net neutrality, ISPs could not discrimination against particular websites or content. However, the repeal of net neutrality would allow ISPs to charge websites and services more for faster access, which could lead to censorship and bias online.

ISPs could also start privileging their own services over competitors. For example, Comcast could give its streaming service preferential treatment over rivals like Netflix. This would create a two-tiered system in which some websites and services are available only to those who can afford to pay extra, which could disadvantage smaller companies and limit competition.

The repeal of net neutrality would also allow ISPs to sell data caps and slow down traffic on certain sites in order to increase revenue. This would restrict users’ freedom of expression and ability to access information without paying extra fees.

Net neutrality is important because it ensures that all Internet users have an equal opportunity to access information and participate in the digital marketplace. The repeal of net neutrality would lead to increased censorship and bias online, which would threaten the privacy of users and restrict their freedoms.

What You Can Do to Prevent the Loss of Net Neutrality

Net neutrality is the principle that all data on the internet be treated equally. Without net neutrality, providers could charge different rates for different types of traffic, which would lead to increased censorship and bias online. The FCC voted to repeal net neutrality in December 2017, which could lead to these consequences.

The repeal of net neutrality could lead to increased censorship and bias online because ISPs could start charging websites for access to their customers, instead of treating all data equally. This would give large corporations more control over what we see and do online, and would make it difficult for smaller businesses to compete.

The loss of net neutrality also affects our ability to freely communicate online. Without net neutrality rules in place, ISPs could block certain websites or slow down access to them altogether. This would make it harder for people to engage in political discussion or exchange information without fear of censorship.

There are several ways you can get involved in fight against the loss of net neutrality:
1) Share this article with your friends and family members so they know what’s at stake if net neutrality is repealed.
2) Sign up for alerts from organizations like Fight For The Future or OpenMedia so you’re always aware of any developments related to the issue.
3) Write letters to your local representatives asking them to support net neutrality regulations.
4) Advocate for basic consumer rights when shopping online by using a VPN when accessing questionable content or sites that may be blocked by your ISP.

Conclusion

The loss of net neutrality could have a huge impact on the internet as we know it. With providers able to discriminate against certain websites and services, users may be at a disadvantage when trying to access the same information online. This would lead to increased censorship and bias in online content, which would ultimately harm both consumers and entrepreneurs. It is essential that we do all we can to protect net neutrality in order to keep the internet open and accessible for everyone.

Author

Sam Hopkins

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Business

Fractional CMO: Strategic Marketing Leadership On-Demand

Published

1 day ago

January 30, 2026

beecollaborativellc

As markets become more competitive and customer journeys more complex, marketing has evolved into a strategic growth function rather than a support role. Yet many businesses struggle to manage marketing effectively. Campaigns are launched, tools are purchased, agencies are hired—but results remain inconsistent. The problem is rarely effort. More often, it’s the absence of senior leadership.

This is where a Fractional CMO provides significant value. A Fractional Chief Marketing Officer delivers experienced, executive-level marketing leadership on a part-time or contract basis, helping businesses build clarity, alignment, and measurable growth—without the cost or commitment of a full-time CMO.

What Is a Fractional CMO?

A Fractional CMO is an experienced marketing executive who integrates into your leadership team and takes ownership of marketing strategy and performance. Unlike consultants who provide short-term advice or agencies that focus on execution, a Fractional CMO is accountable for outcomes.

They are responsible for aligning marketing with business objectives, prioritizing initiatives, managing resources, and ensuring every marketing effort contributes to growth.

This role is especially valuable for companies that are growing, restructuring, or scaling but are not yet ready—or do not need—a full-time CMO.

Why Marketing Without Leadership Breaks Down

Many organizations invest heavily in marketing but fail to see meaningful ROI. Common issues include:

Marketing activity without a clear strategy
Inconsistent brand messaging across channels
Poor lead quality and low conversion rates
Misalignment between sales and marketing teams
Lack of performance tracking and accountability

Without senior leadership, marketing becomes reactive rather than strategic. A Fractional CMO brings structure, focus, and long-term thinking to solve these challenges.

Core Responsibilities of a Fractional CMO

A Fractional CMO oversees the full marketing function, ensuring alignment from strategy to execution. Key responsibilities typically include:

Developing a comprehensive marketing strategy and roadmap
Defining ideal customer profiles and market positioning
Establishing brand voice, messaging, and value propositions
Building demand generation and lead nurturing systems
Aligning marketing efforts with sales goals and pipelines
Managing internal teams, agencies, and vendors
Setting KPIs, dashboards, and performance metrics
Optimizing marketing budgets for maximum ROI

By overseeing both strategy and execution, a Fractional CMO ensures marketing efforts are cohesive, measurable, and scalable.

Key Benefits of Hiring a Fractional CMO

1. Executive Expertise at a Fraction of the Cost

Hiring a full-time CMO is a major investment. A Fractional CMO provides the same strategic leadership without long-term salary, benefits, or equity commitments.

2. Faster Strategic Clarity

With experience across industries and growth stages, Fractional CMOs quickly identify gaps, opportunities, and priorities—eliminating trial and error.

3. Improved Marketing ROI

A Fractional CMO focuses on efficiency and performance, ensuring marketing spend is allocated to initiatives that drive revenue.

4. Stronger Team Direction and Accountability

Marketing teams perform better with clear leadership. A fractional CMO defines roles, sets expectations, and builds accountability.

5. Scalable, Repeatable Growth Systems

Rather than relying on one-off campaigns, Fractional CMOs build systems and processes that support long-term growth.

When Should a Business Hire a Fractional CMO?

A Fractional CMO is an ideal solution when:

Marketing feels busy but ineffective
Revenue growth has plateaued
You’re preparing to scale or enter new markets
You possess a marketing team, but lack senior leadership
You’re overspending without clear ROI
You need strategy before increasing marketing investment

If your business is asking “What should we focus on next?” a CMO can provide the answer.

Fractional CMO vs Full-Time CMO

While both roles provide executive leadership, the difference lies in flexibility and cost. A full-time CMO is best suited for large or enterprise organizations with complex, mature marketing operations.

A Fractional CMO, on the other hand, is ideal for small to mid-sized businesses that need leadership, strategy, and accountability—but not at a full-time scale. This model allows companies to access top-tier expertise while remaining agile and cost-efficient.

Long-Term Impact of a Fractional CMO

The true value of a Fractional CMO extends beyond immediate improvements and thus, They help businesses:

Build internal marketing capabilities
Create clarity around positioning and messaging
Establish performance-driven cultures
Align marketing with overall business strategy
Lay the foundation for sustainable growth

Over time, marketing becomes a predictable, scalable function rather than a series of disconnected tactics.

Partner With an Experienced Fractional CMO

At Bee Collaborative LLC, we provide Fractional CMO services designed to help businesses gain clarity, focus, and momentum. Our approach combines executive-level strategy with hands-on leadership, ensuring marketing supports revenue growth and long-term success.

Final Thoughts

A CMO is not a temporary fix—it’s a strategic advantage. For businesses that want senior marketing leadership without executive overhead, this model delivers clarity, accountability, and results.

By turning marketing into a disciplined growth engine, a Fractional CMO helps businesses scale smarter, spend wisely, and compete with confidence. By turning marketing into a disciplined growth engine, a Fractional CMO helps businesses scale smarter, spend wisely, and compete with confidence.

Author

beecollaborativellc

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Computer Electronic

Webroot Pop-Ups on Windows 11: Troubleshooting Guide

Published

6 days ago

January 26, 2026

David Cruz

Webroot is a popular cloud-based antivirus solution known for its lightweight performance and real-time protection. However, many Windows 11 users report frequent Webroot pop-ups that can interrupt work, gaming, or browsing. These alerts may include subscription warnings, scan notifications, threat detections, or promotional messages. While some pop-ups are important, excessive notifications can quickly become frustrating.

In this guide, we’ll walk through practical, safe, and effective ways to reduce or completely stop Webroot pop-ups on a Windows 11 computer—without compromising your system’s security.

Why Webroot Pop-Ups Appear So Often

Before disabling anything, it’s helpful to understand why Webroot shows pop-ups in the first place:

Real-time threat alerts when malware or suspicious behavior is detected
Subscription or license expiration warnings
Scheduled scan notifications
System integration alerts (firewall, browser protection, or identity shield updates)
Promotional or upgrade reminders

Some of these are essential for your protection, while others can be safely adjusted or silenced.

Method 1: Adjust Webroot Notification Settings

The most direct way to reduce pop-ups is through Webroot’s built-in settings.

Open Webroot SecureAnywhere from the system tray or Start menu
Click the gear icon (Settings)
Go to the General tab
Look for notification-related options such as:
- “Show alerts”
- “Show system tray notifications”
Uncheck non-critical alert options
Click Save and close the program

This method allows you to keep essential security alerts while disabling routine or promotional messages.

Method 2: Check Your Webroot Subscription Status

A very common reason for repeated pop-ups is an expired or nearly expired subscription.

Open Webroot
Check the license status on the main dashboard
If expired, you’ll continue receiving warnings until it’s renewed or removed

If you’re unsure about renewal options or licensing issues, you can contact customer support for clarification. Resolving license problems often eliminates recurring alerts instantly.

Method 3: Disable Webroot Notifications in Windows 11

Windows 11 includes a centralized notification system that lets you control alerts app by app.

Press Windows + I to open Settings
Go to System → Notifications
Scroll down to find Webroot SecureAnywhere
Toggle notifications Off

This prevents Webroot from showing pop-ups at the Windows level, even if the app itself generates alerts.

Tip: Use this method carefully, as it blocks all notifications, including critical threat warnings.

Method 4: Turn Off Scan and Scheduled Alerts

If Webroot pop-ups mainly appear during scans:

Open Webroot
Go to Settings → Scan Settings
Disable options like:

“Show scan progress”
“Notify when scan completes”

You can still keep automatic scanning enabled while removing unnecessary interruptions.

Method 5: Check Browser Extensions and Identity Protection Alerts

Webroot installs browser extensions to protect against phishing and malicious websites. These can sometimes trigger repeated pop-ups.

Open your browser (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox)
Go to Extensions / Add-ons
Locate Webroot SecureAnywhere
Adjust its permissions or temporarily disable it to test if pop-ups stop

If disabling the extension resolves the issue, reinstall it cleanly or adjust its notification permissions.

Method 6: Perform a Clean Reinstall of Webroot

Corrupt installations or leftover files from upgrades can cause excessive alerts.

Steps for a clean reinstall:

Uninstall Webroot from Settings → Apps → Installed Apps
Restart your computer
Download the latest version from Webroot’s official site
Reinstall and activate using your keycode

This often resolves bugs, duplicate services, or notification loops.

Method 7: Scan for Malware or Conflicting Software

Ironically, persistent pop-ups can sometimes be triggered by:

Malware imitating Webroot alerts
Conflicts with other antivirus or security tools

Ensure you:

Run a full system scan
Avoid using two real-time antivirus programs simultaneously
Remove suspicious or unknown applications

Method 8: Contact Support for Persistent Pop-Ups

If none of the above methods work, the issue may be account- or system-specific. Reaching out to trained support professionals can help identify deeper causes such as backend account errors or configuration conflicts. For personalized assistance, you can call and explain the type of pop-ups you’re receiving, how often they appear, and what steps you’ve already tried.

Best Practices to Prevent Future Webroot Alerts

Keep Windows 11 fully updated
Avoid running multiple security programs together
Review Webroot settings after major updates
Renew or deactivate licenses you no longer use
Periodically review notification preferences

Final Thoughts

Webroot pop-ups on Windows 11 are usually well-intentioned, but they don’t have to disrupt your daily workflow. By adjusting in-app settings, managing Windows notifications, checking your subscription status, and reinstalling the software if necessary, you can dramatically reduce or eliminate unwanted alerts—while still staying protected.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are Webroot pop-ups a sign that my computer is infected?

Not always. Most Webroot pop-ups are routine notifications such as scan completions, subscription reminders, or security status updates. However, threat alerts should be reviewed carefully, as they may indicate suspicious activity.

2. Will disabling Webroot pop-ups reduce my computer’s security?

Disabling non-essential notifications does not reduce security. However, turning off all alerts at the Windows 11 notification level may cause you to miss important threat warnings. It’s best to disable only promotional or informational pop-ups.

3. Why do Webroot pop-ups appear even when I’m not using the program?

Webroot runs in the background to provide real-time protection. Notifications may appear during scheduled scans, automatic updates, or when monitoring web activity—even if the app isn’t actively open.

4. Can Windows 11 updates cause increased Webroot pop-ups?

Yes. Major Windows 11 updates can reset system permissions or notification settings, which may cause Webroot to re-enable alerts or display compatibility notifications temporarily.

5. How can I tell if a Webroot pop-up is legitimate or fake?

Legitimate Webroot pop-ups usually include the official logo and appear in the system tray. Fake alerts often redirect you to unfamiliar websites or request immediate payment. When in doubt, open the Webroot app directly instead of clicking the pop-up.

6. Is it safe to use Webroot alongside another antivirus program?

Running two real-time antivirus programs can cause conflicts, performance issues, and excessive pop-ups. It’s recommended to use only one primary antivirus solution at a time.

7. Do Webroot browser extensions cause extra pop-ups?

Yes, browser protection features can trigger alerts related to blocked sites, phishing attempts, or unsafe downloads. These can usually be adjusted or limited within the browser extension settings.

8. Will reinstalling Webroot reset my notification preferences?

Yes. A clean reinstall restores default settings, which may re-enable notifications. After reinstalling, revisit the settings to customize alerts according to your preferences.

Author

David Cruz

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Digital Development

Fixing BellSouth Email: Common Issues and Troubleshooting Steps

Published

6 days ago

January 26, 2026

hanryleo

BellSouth Email is a widely used webmail service, recognized for its ability to facilitate global communication while prioritizing data security and user confidentiality. Despite its robust features, users occasionally encounter issues that can affect their email experience.

One of the most common problems is not receiving new emails, which can disrupt your workflow and communication. In this article, we will examine the causes of this problem and offer practical solutions.

Why Isn’t BellSouth Email Receiving New Emails?

There are several potential reasons why you might not be receiving emails in your BellSouth account. Grasping these elements is essential for pinpointing the correct answer. Here are some common issues:

Filter Settings
Email filters can sometimes inadvertently block incoming messages by redirecting them to designated folders. If you’ve set up filters, one of them may be hindering the delivery of specific emails.
Forwarding Settings
Many users set up forwarding to manage multiple email accounts. If you’ve enabled forwarding to another address and that option is misconfigured, it can prevent incoming emails from reaching your BellSouth inbox.
Blacklisting Issues
If you’ve inadvertently blacklisted a sender or their domain, their emails will not appear in your inbox. This is something to verify if you’re missing messages from specific individuals.
Incorrect Email Address
Sometimes, the sender might simply type the wrong email address. This can easily happen, so it’s worth confirming that the sender has your correct email.
Server Address Problems
If you’re trying to access your BellSouth account using a mobile app or third-party application, incorrect server addresses can lead to issues with receiving emails.

How to Resolve the “BellSouth Not Receiving Emails” Issue

If you’re unable to receive emails, there are various troubleshooting measures you can implement to fix the issue.

Step 1: Verify the Sender’s Email Address

First, confirm with the sender that they are using the correct email address. This simple step can often resolve issues stemming from typos or miscommunication. Communicating directly with the sender can save both parties time and frustration.

Step 2: Check Email Filter Settings

Log into your BellSouth Email account and review your filter settings. Ensure that none of your filters are mistakenly blocking incoming messages. If needed, modify or take away the filters and check to determine if emails are arriving now.

Step 3: Review Forwarding Settings

If you have set up email forwarding to another account, double-check that the settings are correct. Disable any forwarding options temporarily to see if this resolves the issue. This will help ensure that all emails are directed to your primary inbox.

Step 4: Correct Server Address

If you’re using a third-party application or accessing your email via mobile, ensure that you have entered the correct server address. Incorrect settings can prevent emails from being delivered. You may want to look up the correct server settings on the BellSouth help page for confirmation.

Step 5: Seek Professional Support

If after trying the above steps you are still experiencing issues, it may be time to consult technical support. The BellSouth customer support team is well-equipped to assist you with your account issues. They can offer insights and solutions customized to your unique circumstances.

Contacting BellSouth Customer Support

Should problems persist, BellSouth offers multiple channels for support. Here’s how you can get in touch:

1. Phone Support

For immediate assistance, calling is often the most effective method. Simply:

Dial the BellSouth customer service number.
Choose your language preference and follow the automated instructions.
Select the topic related to your email issue.
Wait for a representative to assist you.

This direct communication can lead to quicker resolutions and is often preferred by users who need urgent help.

2. Email Support

If you prefer written communication, you can also reach out via email:

Visit the [BellSouth website]
Send an email to support@bellsouth.com detailing your issue

This method is useful for more complicated concerns that might require documentation or a detailed explanation.

3. Live Chat Support

Live chat is another convenient option for obtaining help:

Navigate to the BellSouth support page.
Look for the live chat icon to start a conversation with a support agent.
Describe your issue to receive real-time assistance.

Chat support can be particularly useful for those who prefer not to speak on the phone.

Advantages of 24/7 Support

One of the great benefits of BellSouth customer service is that it’s available 24/7. This ensures that no matter the time of day, you can receive help for a range of issues, from technical glitches to account security questions. However, note that some specific departments may have limited hours, so check their website for the latest information.

Conclusion

In today’s digital age, email is an essential tool for both personal and professional communication. Encountering issues with your BellSouth Email can be frustrating, especially when you rely on it for vital correspondence. By understanding the common reasons for not receiving emails and following the provided troubleshooting steps, you can often rectify the situation swiftly.

However, if issues continue, don’t hesitate to tap into BellSouth’s user-friendly customer support resources. Whether you choose to call, email, or chat live, assistance is readily available to ensure you have a smooth email experience. Remember, a proactive approach to resolving these issues can significantly enhance your overall experience with the BellSouth platform.