bluetooth – PSafe Blog

Can Someone Hack My Android’s Bluetooth?

PSafe Newsroom — Mon, 05 Jun 2017 13:30:49 +0000

These days, almost all phones have a Bluetooth connection available. What you might not know is that this connection could be exposing your phone to hacking attempts. If you think your phone has been hacked, be sure to use the Security Scan feature to see if there have been any security breaches:

The Security Scan function allows you to quickly verify phone and app files to scan for viruses and fix any security breaches. Learn more about Bluetooth hacking and discover other ways to protect your Android phone.

Bluetooth hacking occurs when a hacker is able to connect to your phone using its Bluetooth connection. This hack can only occur if the hacker is within a potential hacked phone’s Bluetooth range, which is roughly 30 feet. Once the hacker is connected, however, it opens up a hacked phone to all sorts of security vulnerabilities.

There are 3 major types of Bluetooth hacking: bluejacking, bluesnarfing, and bluebugging. Bluejacking allows a hacked phone to send anonymous messages to other phones in the vicinity. Bluesnarfing is the practice of taking information like calendars, call lists, emails, and text messages, as well as pictures and private videos away from your phone and transferring them to the hacker. Bluebugging allows the hacker to take complete control of the phone, giving them the ability to listen in on taking and receiving calls from a hacked phone as well as complete access to a hacked phones call records.

So what can you do to make sure your phone does not get hacked? Here are a couple solutions:

Turn off your phone’s Bluetooth when you aren’t using it. Keeping your Bluetooth on for unnecessary amounts of time just exposes you to the threat of being Bluetooth hacked.
Don’t accept any Bluetooth requests unless you know where they are coming from.
The older your phone is, the more susceptible it is to Bluetooth hacking, so if you are able, try to buy the most recent model of the phone of your choice.
Keeping your phone firmware updated as well is a good way to prevent against Bluetooth hacking.

Be constantly aware of your phone’s functions and how they can be used to exploit a vulnerability. Doing so can try to put you one step ahead of hackers.

How Can Your Electronics Integrate with Your Smart Car?

PSafe Newsroom — Sun, 23 Apr 2017 16:00:15 +0000

Smart cars are the future: they are environmentally friendly, and a great transportation option for growing urban environments. As the technology of smart cars improves, there are more and more opportunities for you to integrate your electronic devices into the car. From seamless connection to your cell phone and to your GPS, there are seemingly endless opportunities for you to use your smart car as a medium to use these devices.

While the smart car may be small, the vast amount of technological opportunities within the smart car compensate for its minute size. Check out all of the different opportunities for integrating electronics with your smart car below. These devices will drastically improve your driving experience, from getting you to where you need to be, to communicating with others, to helping you to park better.

Better GPS Connectivity

Smart cars offer many ways for you to use GPS technology to get from point A to point B. First, you can take the old school route and purchase a mount that will support your GPS device. Second, there is also an “In-Dash with GPS Navigation” option. Mercedes-Benz deems this technology as the “future of navigation.” This technology grants you the same quality GPS services. However, this technology is downloaded into your car, rather than a cumbersome device that sticks on your dashboard.

Smarter Bluetooth Technology

Bluetooth technology is certainly not unique to standard cars. In fact, several different firms offer Bluetooth technology compatible with smart cars. Ranging from $20 to several hundred dollars, these Bluetooth devices each offer unique capabilities, including noise and echo cancellation. Sondpex, Parrot, iSimple, and Rockford Fosgate are just a few of the companies that offer these smart car Bluetooth devices.

Cameras & Driver Safety

It’s safe to say that cameras and other similar technologies have saved thousands of fender benders throughout the past few years. Specifically, rear view cameras and parking sensors have assisted many in parking. In terms of the smart car, there are several different brands of back up cameras you can purchase and implement into your car.

Smart Cars and Android Devices

Your Android device will work harmoniously with the technology provided by smart cars. For example, there are several gadgets that will connect your phone’s music to your smart car’s stereo via Wi-Fi. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, there are several Bluetooth technologies available that will allow you to chat on your cell phone hands-free.

The Top 3 Bluetooth Headphones for Runners

PSafe Newsroom — Tue, 03 Jan 2017 22:00:54 +0000

If you’re a runner, then you know that a good pair of headphones are just as crucial to your performance as endurance itself. Whether you prefer podcasts, audiobooks, or good old-fashioned tunes to keep you motivated and entertained, you’ll want to invest in quality headphones that won’t encumber your run. With that in mind, the first rule of thumb is to go wireless. The last thing you need is a tangled cord getting in your way and tugging at your ears as you try to keep pace. In this post we’ll offer our top three recommendations for bluetooth headphones that ensure your workout will be both fun and unobstructed.

Yoyamo Bluetooth Headset

If you’re on a budget and really just need a quick, inexpensive headset to get you through your laps, try the Yoyamo bluetooth headset. A particularly good choice for casual runners and joggers, its ergonomic design features a convenient earhook to keep the buds in place. The headset comes with easy-to-use voice notification technology, so you can answer incoming calls or select music from your playlists without having to interrupt your run. Also, for the low cost of $32.99, the sound quality is especially good.

Phaiser BHS-730 Bluetooth Earbuds

Listed as “Runner Headset Sport Earphones,” these were made with runners in mind. They even include, as part of their offer, a lifetime sweat-proof warranty. When it comes to performance, these buds boast HD sound, and their patented winged design ensures they remain comfortably in place during long runs and/or difficult terrains. Additionally, as no two ears are alike, Phaiser offers options for both over-and-under ear, so you can choose the fit that best meets your needs. While they normally run in the $160 price range, you can actually pick up a pair on Amazon for the bargain price of $45.99.

Bose SoundSport Pulse Wireless Headphones

For those who are willing and have the budget to make the $200 investment, the Bose SoundSport are specially designed with athletes in mind. As such, not only are they lightweight, ergonomically fitting, and sturdy, but they are built to stay put during the most rigorous of workouts or sport activities. The headphones are also sweat and weather resistant, and, as an added bonus for serious runners, let you track your heartbeat so you can measure progress. If your love of fitness extends beyond the track and into apps like RunKeeper and Endomondo, you’ll really enjoy the added perk of these headphones’ compatibility.

Rock Out on Your Device with the Bluetooth AirJamz Pick

PSafe Newsroom — Wed, 09 Nov 2016 23:02:02 +0000

Now there’s a new way to play air guitar. The AirJamz guitar pick will bring your air guitar skills to life through a Bluetooth-enabled device and an AirJamz Android app. With the pick, you can strum on your imaginary guitar and your phone will make that sound come to life. However, the AirJamz pick allows you to play more than the guitar: with the pick you can also play the keyboard, drums, flute, or cello, among other instruments, in addition to producing sound effects like lasers or a DJ scratching a record. Think of the AirJamz pick as another way to enjoy your favorite music, like you already do with musical video games like Guitar Hero or karaoke with friends. The AirJamz pick might just be the perfect gift to give — or receive — this holiday season, in addition to offering an entertaining new way to spend time with family and friends.

What the AirJamz Pick Includes

You can order the AirJamz pick on their website or Amazon for about $50. It comes in two colors: black or red. The AirJamz package includes the Bluetooth-enabled pick, the AirJamz app for Android, 25 free music tracks you can download, and a battery. Additional tracks are available to purchase in app. You can also connect up to four AirJamz picks to your Android phone or tablet at once.

AirJamz is Easy to Set Up

Once your AirJamz pick has arrived, all you need to do is download the app, turn on the pick, and connect the two devices via Bluetooth. It shouldn’t take more than a few minutes to set up. In addition, you can connect the device to a wireless speaker, or plug in headphones so no one else can hear you rock out. You’ll be ready to jam away and create your own music in no time.

How Does the AirJamz Pick Work?

The previously mentioned music tracks include genre-specific instrumental sounds for you to create your own music. (However, future versions of the AirJamz pick and app will include popular songs to jam out to.) Essentially, the pick recognizes your movements and produces a sound in response, according to the track you’ve chosen. For example, if you want to play a guitar solo, then you will need to move your fingers rapidly to produce the appropriate sound. It’s like magic — no actual musical skill necessary. With the AirJamz pick, you’re already a pro.

No Headphone Port? No Problem! We’ve Got You Covered

PSafe Newsroom — Fri, 14 Oct 2016 13:40:01 +0000

Several Android models without headphone jacks were announced this year. Within the next few years, we might all be using Android phones without headphone jacks. While that doesn’t necessarily mean we have to dispose of our favorite wired headphones (adaptors are available for these phones), going wireless might be an easier option. All of the headphones below will work with your Android phone. So, without further ado, here are the best Bluetooth wireless headphones available now.

Sennheiser Momentum 2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
These are among the best-rated wireless headphones currently available. The price ranges from about $380-$500. They are available in an over-ear version. Some of the features include active noise-cancellation, 22-hour battery life, 2 built-in microphones, and a 16Hz to 22kHz frequency response. The over-ear style will also make these headphones more comfortable for extended periods of time than many on-ear styles.

BÖHM Bluetooth Wireless B-66 Headphones
These headphones are stylish and functional. They are available in black and silver or gold and tan, and offer a premium sound quality for the price. You can currently snag them for about $85 on Amazon. They offer noise cancellation, an inline microphone, and an 18-hour battery life.

Bose SoundLink Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
These are a cheaper alternative to the Bose QuietComfort 35 wireless headphones, at about $229. They are comfortable, with quality sound, and include up 15 hours of battery life and a microphone for phone calls. Worth noting: it is easy to switch between Bluetooth devices while staying connected to your phone.

Skullcandy Hesh 2 Unleashed Over-Ear Headphones
This option is under $100 and is available in a variety of colors. It includes up to 15 hours of battery life, an over-ear design for increased comfort, a remote and microphone, and sound isolation.

Bowers & Wilkins P7 Wireless Headphones
These headphones offer a stylish, modern design and quality sound. They are over-ear and about $400 to purchase. Other perks: the battery lasts for up to 17 hours, they can be folded for ease of travel, and you can charge them from your laptop. A cheaper alternative, however, is the P5 model, which offers a similar experience for half the price.

Make Your Wired Headphones Wireless
If you don’t want to buy new headphones, or you love a particular brand or model of wired headphones and can’t part with them, you can also make your current headphones wireless. A quick search for Bluetooth receiver on Amazon, NewEgg, or your favorite online tech retailer will bring back a number of results. Most are small enough to now fit in your pocket and come with a headphone port, which will pick up the Bluetooth signal from your phone and send the audio to your headphones. Just make sure you look for a model that can hold a charge; some need to be wired to a power source to operate.

The Best Bluetooth Speakers to Buy This October

PSafe Newsroom — Mon, 03 Oct 2016 15:08:23 +0000

Music is perfect for any type of event. It sets the mood, gets people excited and is fun to dance too. We all know speakers are the most important element for your party, but how do you choose the right one? Traditional speakers, the ones where you leave your phone or music player attached, can be effective but annoying to the owner of the music playing device. Obviously bluetooth speakers are the way to go, but it’s hard to find the best ones with the quantity on the market. Luckily for you, we’ve found the best bluetooth speakers so you can focus on what’s important, the music.

UE Boom 2
For those of us who want our music on the go, the UE Boom 2 is perfect. The speaker is cylindrical and only weighs 1.2 pounds. Don’t let the small size fool you, the speaker can run for 15 hours straight and has a wireless range of thirty feet. But that’s not all. The speaker is waterproof. Bring the boom to the beach or the pool, and you’ll never have to worry about doing damage control.

Fugoo
This speaker is perfect for those listeners who are looking to travel and won’t have access to many battery sources. Weighing in at just one pound, Fugoo can last 40 hours without a recharge. That’s almost two full days of music without having to worry about battery life. Don’t think that you’ll need to compromise on sound quality to get this amazing battery life, Fugoo offers what techradar labels as an awesome sound.

Creative Muvo Mini
For those of us not looking to spend a lot of money, Creative Muvo Mini can be the best deal for our buck costing just over forty dollars. The Muvo is a .6 pound speaker with a battery life of 10 hours and a respectable wireless range of thirty-two feet. This speaker is waterproof so your listening experience is worry-free. The Muvo Mini is certainly a great value, and for those of us heading back to school, the Muvo is optimal for college dorm rooms.

JBL Charge 3
If you have a little bit of available space, the Charge might be the best speaker for you. The Charge weighs a little more than our previous speakers, 1.76 pounds, but what it loses in compactness it gains in sound. The Charge is praised for its sound quality, and you will always hear your tunes distortion free. Best of all, the charge is waterproof and can undergo thirty minutes underwater without any damage.

4 Best Bluetooth Devices For Your Android

PSafe Newsroom — Wed, 24 Aug 2016 16:52:30 +0000

Your Android phone is fast becoming your best key into the Internet of Things. It can link you to objects that you can connect to your smartphone or computer to improve your life. Your Android phone’s Bluetooth can unite you with a whole world of Internet-enabled objects you never knew existed. But be sure to turn your Bluetooth off when you’re not using it. Here are four of our favorite Bluetooth gadgets for Android.

August Door Lock

The August Door Lock means that you’ll never have to search for your keys when you get near your front door. Instead, the device uses your phone to unlock a deadbolt when you’re in range of your front door. It also lets you send limited-time access codes to your friends, family, or service providers, so you don’t have to leave them physical keys.

Tempo Thermometer

If you need to measure temperatures over long periods of time, a Tempo thermometer might be the answer to your prayers. Simply install the thermometer wherever you need it and it gives you temperature data for 24 hours. You can also set alerts to let you know when the temperature gets too hot for your pets or too cold for your plants.

94Fifty Men’s Basketball

Want to improve your basketball game? This Bluetooth-connected basketball can help. The 94Fifty basketball monitors all the stats you need to improve your game, from how many times you dribble to the force of your spin. After you’ve finished a game, you can check out the data on your smartphone to figure out where you’re excelling and where you need work.

Whistle Dog Activity Tracker

While you might be tracking your fitness levels all over the place, you probably don’t have that same information about your dog. That’s where Whistle’s collar attachment comes in. You can use the Whistle app to see how much activity your dog is getting and then compare your pooch’s fitness level to that of other dogs of his or her breed and age.

To make your Bluetooth-enabled device run smoothly, you want to make sure your Internet speed is as fast as it can be. That’s where PSafe Total comes in. PSafe’s Internet Booster feature closes extra applications running on your device so you can browse without any lag time. At the same time, you’ll use your data more efficiently. PSafe is free and downloads automatically, so there’s no reason not to try it out.