Technology

What You Need to Know About Google’s $5 Billion Privacy Deal

Published

2 years ago

December 29, 2023

Fred Wilson

What You Need to Know About Google’s $5 Billion Privacy Deal

Introduction

Hi, I’m John Smith, a cybersecurity expert and a freelance writer. I have been following the latest developments in the field of online privacy and security for over a decade. In this article, I will share with you some insights and analysis on Google’s $5 billion privacy deal, which is one of the biggest legal challenges the tech giant has ever faced.

What is Google’s $5 Billion Privacy Deal?

Google’s $5 billion privacy deal is a proposed class action lawsuit that accuses the company of illegally invading the privacy of millions of users by tracking their internet use even when they are browsing in “private” mode. The lawsuit claims that Google collects data through various applications and website plug-ins, regardless of whether users click on Google-supported ads or not. This data includes information about users’ friends, hobbies, favorite foods, shopping habits, and even the most intimate and potentially embarrassing things they search for online.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski on Unsplash

The lawsuit seeks at least $5,000 of damages per user for violations of federal wiretapping and California privacy laws. The proposed class action likely includes “millions” of Google users who since June 1, 2016 browsed the internet in “private” mode. The lawsuit was filed in June 2020 in the federal court in San Jose, California, by the law firm Boies Schiller Flexner.

Why is This Lawsuit Important?

This lawsuit is important for several reasons. First, it challenges Google’s dominant position in the online advertising market, which relies heavily on user data to target ads and generate revenue. Google controls about 90% of the global web search market and about 37% of the US digital ad market. If the lawsuit succeeds, Google could face a significant financial loss and a reputational damage.

Image by: https://lawgazette.com.sg

Second, it raises awareness about the privacy risks of using Google’s products and services, especially in “private” mode. Many internet users assume that their search history and online activity are not being tracked when they use incognito mode, but this is not the case. Google says that it clearly states each time users open a new incognito tab that websites might be able to collect information about their browsing activity. However, the lawsuit argues that this disclaimer is not enough and that users have a reasonable expectation of privacy when they use private mode.

Third, it could have a ripple effect on other tech companies and online platforms that also collect user data for advertising purposes. The lawsuit could set a precedent for future legal actions against other data-hungry companies, such as Facebook, Amazon, and Twitter, that might also be violating user privacy rights. The lawsuit could also inspire more users to demand more transparency and control over their personal data and to seek alternative solutions that respect their privacy.

Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik

How Does This Affect Your Online Privacy?

If you are a Google user, this lawsuit could affect your online privacy in several ways. Depending on the outcome of the case, you might be eligible for compensation if you have been affected by Google’s alleged privacy violations. You might also be able to opt out of Google’s data collection practices or delete your data from Google’s servers. However, these options might not be available until the case is resolved, which could take years.

In the meantime, you can take some steps to protect your online privacy and reduce your exposure to Google’s tracking. Here are some tips that you can follow:

Use a different browser than Google Chrome, such as Firefox, Safari, or Brave, that offer more privacy features and less data collection.
Use a search engine that does not track your queries, such as DuckDuckGo, Qwant, or Startpage, that provide similar results as Google but without the ads and the tracking.
Use a VPN (virtual private network) service that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address, such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or ProtonVPN, that prevent Google and other third parties from snooping on your online activity.
Use a privacy-focused email service that does not scan your messages, such as ProtonMail, Tutanota, or Mailfence, that offer end-to-end encryption and do not share your data with advertisers.
Use a browser extension that blocks ads and trackers, such as uBlock Origin, Privacy Badger, or Ghostery, that prevent Google and other websites from collecting your data and showing you personalized ads.

Conclusion

Google’s $5 billion privacy deal is a landmark case that could have a major impact on the online privacy and security of millions of users. The lawsuit challenges Google’s data collection practices and exposes the privacy risks of using Google’s products and services. As a business professional, you should be aware of these risks and take measures to protect your online privacy and security. You should also keep an eye on the developments of the case and see how it affects your rights and options as a Google user.

Summary Table

Google’s $5 Billion Privacy Deal	What It Means for You
A proposed class action lawsuit that accuses Google of illegally tracking users in private mode	A potential threat to your online privacy and security
A challenge to Google’s dominant position in the online advertising market	A possible opportunity for more competition and innovation
A precedent for future legal actions against other data-hungry companies	A catalyst for more user awareness and demand for privacy
A source of uncertainty and confusion for Google users	A reason to take action and protect your online privacy and security

Author

Fred Wilson

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Computer Electronic

How to Resolve BellSouth Email Issues in Outlook

Published

3 days ago

February 4, 2026

hanryleo

To get help with BellSouth email issues in Outlook, you can contact BellSouth Email Support by calling. Our experienced support specialists are available to help you troubleshoot a wide range of problems, including login failures, account access errors, slow email performance, and incorrect Outlook settings. We’re committed to providing quick, dependable, and effective solutions to restore your email service.

Outlook is widely regarded as one of the most reliable and user-friendly email clients available today. It also makes setting up email accounts quick and hassle-free.

If you’re using a BellSouth email account, you can easily configure and access it through Outlook as well. However, many users have recently reported facing the BellSouth.net email not working issue.

If you’re facing the same issue, there’s no reason to worry. We’ve put together several effective solutions to help you resolve the issue and restore your email service. Before jumping into the fixes, let’s first take a look at the common reasons behind BellSouth email not working problems.

Reasons for BellSouth Email Not Working Issue

There can be several factors responsible for the BellSouth email not working problem. Below are some of the most common causes that often trigger this issue for users.

If you are unable to send or receive emails using your BellSouth account on Outlook, the problem may be related to incorrect email server settings. Improper incoming or outgoing mail configuration is one of the leading reasons behind this error.

Login-related issues with your BellSouth email account can also prevent proper access. Additionally, compatibility problems or temporary glitches within the email client you are using may cause the service to malfunction.

Different Methods to Fix Email Not Working in Outlook

If you’re searching for effective ways to resolve the email not working issue, follow the solutions listed below. In case one method doesn’t work, proceed to the next solution for better results.

Ensure BellSouth Email Is Configured Correctly

You can troubleshoot the BellSouth email not working issue by correctly setting up your BellSouth email account in Outlook. Incorrect server details, port numbers, or security settings can interrupt email functionality.

Carefully follow the steps outlined below to learn how to properly configure your BellSouth email account and restore smooth email access without interruptions.

Steps to Configure BellSouth Email in Outlook

First, open Microsoft Outlook and select the Add Account option.
Next, choose Manual Setup or Additional Server Types.
Select POP or IMAP as the account type.
Enter your email address and display name in the required fields.

If you are using a POP3 account, set the incoming mail server to inbound.att.net and the outgoing mail server to outbound.att.net.
Now, enter the correct port numbers—465 for the outgoing server and 995 for the incoming server.
Once all details are filled in, save the changes and complete the setup process.

Create a Secure Mail Key

If Outlook email is still not working, creating a secure mail key may help resolve the issue. A secure mail key improves account authentication and prevents login errors.

To create a secure mail key, follow these steps:

Open the email profile page and sign in to your account.
Navigate to the Login Information section.
Select the email account for which you want to generate a secure key.
Click on Manage Secure Mail Keys, then choose Add Secure Mail Key.
Select Create Secure Key, copy the generated key, and click OK.
Use this secure key as your password while setting up BellSouth email in Outlook.

Remove and Re-add BellSouth Email Account in Outlook

If none of the above solutions work, removing and re-adding your BellSouth email account can often fix persistent errors.

Start by opening Outlook and clicking on File.
Select Account Settings, then choose Manage Profiles.
Locate your BellSouth.net email account, select it, and click Remove.

To re-add the account, open Account Settings again and go to the Email tab.
Click on Manual Setup, select Next, and choose Internet Email.
Enter the required server details and click Test Account Settings.
Once the test completes successfully, click Done to finish the process.

Following these steps should help you fix the BellSouth.net email not working in Outlook issue and restore smooth email functionality. If the problem persists, checking server status or contacting support may be helpful.

In most cases, the problem can be resolved simply by correctly configuring the email account and generating a secure mail key.

If that doesn’t work, then try troubleshooting your issue by removing and re-adding the email account in Outlook.

Conclusion!

BellSouth email failures in Outlook are usually caused by incorrect server settings, outdated authentication methods, network issues, or recent security changes from AT&T. Fortunately, these problems are rarely permanent and can be resolved by verifying IMAP/SMTP settings, updating Outlook, re-entering credentials, and using secure authentication options. Keeping your system and email client updated, maintaining a stable internet connection, and following AT&T’s security requirements will help ensure smooth and reliable BellSouth email access in Outlook going forward.

Author

hanryleo

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Costumer Services

SBCGlobal Email Not Receiving Emails: A Comprehensive Guide

Published

3 days ago

February 4, 2026

sacjim

Introduction

If you’re facing problems with SBCGlobal email not receiving emails, you’re not alone. Many users experience email delivery issues caused by server settings, outdated configurations, or account security errors. This guide will walk you through why your SBCGlobal email might not be receiving messages, how to fix it step-by-step, and when to contact professional suppor for advanced troubleshooting.

What Is SBCGlobal Email?

SBCGlobal.net is a legacy email service originally provided by Southwestern Bell Corporation, which later merged with AT&T. Even though new SBCGlobal accounts are no longer being created, millions of users still access their SBCGlobal email through AT&T’s Yahoo Mail platform.

However, because SBCGlobal operates on older infrastructure and server settings, users sometimes experience email syncing, login, or receiving issues especially when using third-party apps or outdated settings.

Common Reasons SBCGlobal Email Is Not Receiving Emails

Before you start troubleshooting, it’s important to identify what might be causing the issue. Below are the most frequent culprits behind SBCGlobal email receiving problems:

Incorrect Email Settings: If your incoming (IMAP/POP3) or outgoing (SMTP) settings are incorrect, emails won’t load properly.
Server Outages: Temporary outages or server maintenance by AT&T or Yahoo may interrupt incoming mail delivery.
Storage Limit Reached: When your mailbox exceeds its storage limit, new emails are automatically rejected.
Spam or Filter Rules: Overly strict filters or incorrect spam settings might send legitimate emails to the Junk or Trash folder.
Browser Cache or App Glitches: Cached data and outdated email apps can disrupt syncing or message retrieval.
Blocked Senders or Blacklisted IPs: Accidentally blocking a sender or being on a spam blacklist may prevent messages from reaching your inbox.
Security or Account Lock Issues: Suspicious login attempts or password errors can cause temporary account restrictions.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix SBCGlobal Email Not Receiving Emails

Let’s go through a series of troubleshooting steps to help you restore your email flow. You can perform these solutions on both desktop and mobile platforms.

1. Check SBCGlobal Email Server Status

Sometimes, the issue isn’t on your end.
Go to Downdetector or AT&T’s official website to see if SBCGlobal or AT&T Mail is down.
If there’s an outage, you’ll need to wait until the service is restored.

2. Verify Your Internet Connection

Ensure your device has a stable and fast internet connection. Poor connectivity can stop your email client from syncing or fetching new messages.

3. Update Incoming and Outgoing Mail Server Settings

Outdated or incorrect settings are the most common reason SBCGlobal email stops receiving messages. Here are the correct configurations:

Common Reasons SBCGlobal Email Is Not Receiving Emails

Before you start troubleshooting, it’s important to identify what might be causing the issue. Below are the most frequent culprits behind SBCGlobal email receiving problems:

Incorrect Email Settings: If your incoming (IMAP/POP3) or outgoing (SMTP) settings are incorrect, emails won’t load properly.
Server Outages: Temporary outages or server maintenance by AT&T or Yahoo may interrupt incoming mail delivery.
Storage Limit Reached: When your mailbox exceeds its storage limit, new emails are automatically rejected.
Spam or Filter Rules: Overly strict filters or incorrect spam settings might send legitimate emails to the Junk or Trash folder.
Browser Cache or App Glitches: Cached data and outdated email apps can disrupt syncing or message retrieval.
Blocked Senders or Blacklisted IPs: Accidentally blocking a sender or being on a spam blacklist may prevent messages from reaching your inbox.
Security or Account Lock Issues: Suspicious login attempts or password errors can cause temporary account restrictions.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix SBCGlobal Email Not Receiving Emails

Let’s go through a series of troubleshooting steps to help you restore your email flow. You can perform these solutions on both desktop and mobile platforms.

1. Check SBCGlobal Email Server Status

Sometimes, the issue isn’t on your end.
Go to Downdetector or AT&T’s official website to see if SBCGlobal or AT&T Mail is down.
If there’s an outage, you’ll need to wait until the service is restored.

2. Verify Your Internet Connection

Ensure your device has a stable and fast internet connection. Poor connectivity can stop your email client from syncing or fetching new messages.

3. Update Incoming and Outgoing Mail Server Settings

Outdated or incorrect settings are the most common reason SBCGlobal email stops receiving messages. Here are the correct configurations:

Incoming Mail (IMAP) Server:

Server: imap.mail.att.net
Port: 993
Encryption: SSL
Username: Your full SBCGlobal email address
Password: Your email password

Outgoing Mail (SMTP) Server:

Server: smtp.mail.att.net
Port: 465 or 587
Encryption: SSL/TLS
Requires Authentication: Yes

If you’re using POP3, use:

Incoming server: inbound.att.net, Port 995 (SSL required)
Outgoing server: outbound.att.net, Port 465 (SSL required)

Double-check these settings in your email client (Outlook, Apple Mail, Thunderbird, etc.) to make sure they match.

4. Review Spam and Junk Folder

Sometimes, legitimate emails end up in the Spam or Junk folder. Open these folders and mark any wrongly filtered emails as “Not Spam.”
Also, check your Filters and Blocked Addresses under email settings to ensure no important addresses are being redirected or blocked.

5. Clear Browser Cache or Update Your App

If you access SBCGlobal email through a browser:

Clear your cache, cookies, and browsing history.
Try opening email in incognito/private mode to rule out extensions or ad blockers causing problems.

If you use the Yahoo Mail App or Outlook, ensure the app is updated to the latest version. Outdated apps may not sync with the latest server configurations.

6. Check Mailbox Storage Limit

SBCGlobal email accounts have a maximum storage quota.
Delete unnecessary emails from your inbox, sent, and trash folders.
After clearing space, refresh your inbox or restart your email client — new emails should start appearing.

7. Reset or Re-Add Your SBCGlobal Account

If none of the above methods work, try removing your SBCGlobal account from your email client and re-adding it with the correct settings.
This refreshes the connection and often resolves syncing or server timeout issues.

8. Reset Your Password

If you suspect your account might have been compromised or temporarily locked, resetting your password is a smart step.

Visit the AT&T Password Reset page.
Follow the on-screen steps to verify your identity.
Set a strong, unique password and re-login to your email account.

9. Disable Security Software Temporarily

Firewall or antivirus software can sometimes block email servers.
Temporarily disable them (only if you’re confident about your network security) and check if you start receiving emails again.

10. Contact SBCGlobal Email Support

If you’ve followed all the steps and your SBCGlobal email is still not receiving messages, the issue might be server-side or linked to account configuration.
In that case, it’s best to contact SBCGlobal email support for expert help.

You can reach certified technicians.

They can assist with:

Account recovery and login errors
Server synchronization issues
Email migration or backup
Advanced spam and security settings

Having professional help ensures your account is restored quickly without losing any important messages or data.

Tips to Prevent Future SBCGlobal Email Problems

Update Passwords Regularly: Keep your email account secure and avoid login lockouts.
Use a Reliable Email App: Apps like Outlook or Apple Mail handle IMAP connections more efficiently.
Backup Emails Periodically: Regular backups protect your messages from unexpected sync failures.
Keep Storage Under Control: Delete old attachments and large files frequently.
Monitor Account Activity: Check for unusual login attempts from unknown locations.

Final Thoughts

Facing issues like SBCGlobal email not receiving emails can be frustrating, especially when you rely on your email for important communications. However, most problems can be resolved by verifying server settings, clearing browser cache, managing storage, or resetting passwords.

If you continue to face challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out to expert SBCGlobal email support for personalized assistance. A few minutes of professional troubleshooting can save hours of frustration and get your SBCGlobalemail running smoothly again.

Author

sacjim

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Development

Custom Android App Development: Why Business Needs in 2026

Published

4 days ago

February 3, 2026

Kanhasoft

Introduction

Smartphones have become the first point of contact for customers sometimes even before a handshake or email. Businesses that ignore mobile apps risk being invisible in a world obsessed with convenience and instant gratification. Observing a morning coffee line, it’s clear that nearly everyone interacts with apps more than humans before 9 a.m.—a reality both amusing and terrifying.

The solution? A custom Android app tailored to business needs, enhancing engagement while keeping operations smooth. Investing in a digital presence now ensures businesses stay relevant, profitable, and slightly less dependent on caffeine-fueled chaos.

Why Android Apps Are Essential in 2026

Android dominates the global smartphone market, giving businesses access to billions of users. Customers expect instant access, personalized experiences, and seamless communication. Without a mobile app, businesses risk losing attention spans faster than a TikTok video can loop.

Even simple interactions—like checking inventory or booking services—are more effective through apps. Observing small businesses adopting apps reveals increased loyalty, repeat purchases, and smoother operations. The shift isn’t optional; it’s inevitable. A thoughtfully designed Android app not only enhances visibility but also strengthens brand authority in a fast-moving, mobile-first world.

The Power of Customization Android apps

Not all apps are created equal. Generic solutions often miss the nuances of a business’s workflow or audience preferences. Custom Android apps provide the flexibility to implement features specific to operations, customer engagement, and analytics. One frustrating experience with a cookie-cutter app highlighted this: features didn’t match actual needs, and updates were nonexistent. Customization solves that problem. Every button, flow, and notification can be optimized to reflect the brand’s personality while improving efficiency. In 2026, businesses that invest in tailored solutions gain a distinct advantage over competitors using one-size-fits-all apps.

How a Custom Android App Enhances User Experience

User experience is more than aesthetics; it’s how effortlessly a customer navigates a service. Customized apps integrate smooth navigation, loyalty programs, notifications, and secure payments—all designed with the audience in mind. Observing a poorly designed app is like watching someone fumble a grocery cart down a staircase: frustrating, awkward, and unforgettable for all the wrong reasons. With thoughtful UX design, businesses increase engagement and conversion rates while reducing friction. Custom Android apps let users feel understood and valued, creating a digital handshake that encourages repeat interactions, customer loyalty, and brand advocacy.

Business Benefits Beyond the Customer

Efficiency gains extend beyond client interactions. Custom apps streamline internal workflows, automate repetitive tasks, and provide real-time analytics for better decision-making. Observing teams adapt to automated workflows often evokes a mix of relief and mild terror—freedom paired with accountability. Competitive advantage also grows, as businesses can quickly respond to trends, personalize offers, and innovate without waiting for generic software updates. A well-crafted custom app can transform operations, saving both time and money. In 2026, businesses not leveraging these tools risk being outpaced by more agile competitors who understand that mobile-first isn’t optional—it’s survival.

Choosing the Right Custom Android App Development Company

Selecting the right development partner is crucial. Experience, support, and alignment with business goals are non-negotiable. A skilled Custom Android App Development Company translates ideas into functional, scalable apps while offering guidance on UX, security, and performance.

Choosing the wrong team can lead to missed deadlines, buggy software, or wasted investment. Observing projects that fail due to poor vendor choices underscores the importance of research, referrals, and clear communication. Investing in a competent company ensures long-term ROI, smooth updates, and a product that reflects both operational needs and customer expectations, making the app a true business asset.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Custom Android App

Overcomplicating features, ignoring user feedback, or selecting inexperienced developers often undermines app success. Cutting corners may save money initially but results in frustration and lost customers. Maintenance and updates are equally crucial; apps left stagnant resemble digital ghost towns.

Observing neglected apps is oddly comedic—icons still shiny while functions fail miserably. Prioritizing usability over gimmicks, listening to real user behavior, and planning regular improvements ensure the app stays relevant. Avoiding these common pitfalls transforms an app from a liability into a business asset, proving that attention to detail and thoughtful development pay off in 2026 and beyond.

Success Stories / Case Examples About custom Android app

Even small businesses have seen transformative results with custom Android apps. A local coffee shop introduced a loyalty program through an app, boosting repeat customers by 40%. A boutique retailer streamlined inventory and customer orders, saving hours daily. Observing these successes demonstrates that customization, not size, drives results. Apps become extensions of brand identity, improving engagement, revenue, and customer satisfaction.

The right features, updates, and analytics can turn modest businesses into formidable competitors. In 2026, ignoring a custom app is less about cost and more about missing opportunities for meaningful growth and long-term brand relevance.

Future Trends in Android App Development

Artificial intelligence, voice commands, AR, and hyper-personalization define the next wave of mobile innovation. Early adoption of custom apps ensures businesses stay ahead. Observing trends reveals that users increasingly expect predictive experiences and seamless integration across devices.

Investing in a custom Android app now is future-proofing operations and customer engagement. In the coming years, apps may even anticipate customer needs before they arise. Businesses embracing these innovations enjoy loyalty, operational efficiency, and enhanced reputation. In 2026, staying current isn’t a choice—it’s a competitive necessity, and custom apps are the key enabler.

Conclusion

A custom Android app in 2026 is more than technology—it’s a statement that a business values customers, efficiency, and relevance. Observing businesses that adopt mobile-first strategies reveals improved engagement, revenue, and operational smoothness.

Ignoring this shift is like bringing a typewriter to a TikTok convention—charming but hopelessly outdated. Partnering with the right Custom Android App Development ensures the app aligns with both current needs and future growth, transforming a digital presence into a strategic advantage that drives long-term success.

FAQs

1. Why should I invest in a custom Android app?
Custom apps provide tailored features, improve engagement, and enhance operational efficiency, offering a significant competitive advantage over generic solutions.

2. How long does it take to develop a custom Android app?
Depending on complexity, development can take 3–9 months, including planning, design, testing, and deployment.

3. What features should my custom app include?
Key features include seamless navigation, secure payments, push notifications, analytics, and loyalty programs tailored to your audience.

4. Can a small business afford a custom Android app?
Yes—costs vary by complexity, but ROI through efficiency, engagement, and revenue growth often outweighs initial investment.

5. How do I choose the right development company?
Look for experience, portfolio quality, client reviews, communication skills, and understanding of your business needs.

6. How often should I update my app?
Regular updates, ideally every 2–3 months, ensure compatibility, security, and user engagement.

Author

Kanhasoft

Kanhasoft is one of the leading Custom Software Development companies, specializing in Web and Mobile App development and AI-driven solutions. We deliver successful projects worldwide, including CRM Development, ERP Systems, Amazon Seller Tools, and powerful Web & Mobile Applications tailored to business needs. View all posts