6 Ways to Make Sure *Your* Photos Are Safe in the Cloud

Michelle Swift
Sep 04, 2014

What happens in Vegas is supposed to stay in Vegas. But you may have recently learned that what’s in the cloud doesn’t always stay in the cloud… just ask Jennifer Lawrence and as many as 100 other celebrities who’ve gotten some major digital exposure in the past few days. “The Great Naked Celebrity Photo Leak of 2014” has gone viral (no) thanks to a hacker who hit the jackpot and exposed an avalanche of nudie celebrity photos on 4chan by breaching Apple’s iCloud service to gain access to the photos. Does that make you nervous for your own pics and info? Don’t worry — we have the scoop on how to stay protected.

The Internet may seem like a black hole of easy-to-tuck-away private info, but all of that data has to be stored somewhere, which means you run the risk of it all being compromised. We live in the digital age and cloud storage is an amazing thing BUT it’s not a flawless system. It’s time to start taking your digital privacy more seriously. To get you up to speed on minimizing your risk and keeping your photos and other sensitive data safer, we have six ways to score added privacy in the cloud.

1. Protect Your iOS Device: You lock your front door, right? Well, don’t get lazy with your mobile device. Use a passcode. Touch ID is a seamless way to use your fingerprint as a passcode, and since that is unique to you = hack proof! When it comes to protecting ALL of your passwords, grab a pen and paper and jot down these tips and tricks: Use a complex password (combination of letters and numbers, upper and lower case and symbols), do not share it with anyone, use a private email if at all possible for your ID, don’t click on links in emails, don’t share personal information over social networks and use completely incorrect or random answers to password reset questions. Got all that? (via Apple)

2. Two-Step Authentication: For an added layer of security, two-factor authentication is a simple feature that asks for more than just your password. It requires both something you know (like a password) and something you have (like your phone). After you enter your password, you’ll get a second code sent to your phone. Only after you enter the code will you get into your account. Check out this link that includes every place (iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive, PayPal…) that you should have two-step authentication and the instruction on how to enable it. (via Lifehacker)

3. Disable My Photo Stream: Photo Stream automatically uploads your latest 1,000 photos to iCloud and shares them across all your iOS devices and with specified friends and family. If you prefer not to automatically store your photos in iCloud, you have to disable the feature. To disable Photo Stream, go to System Preferences > iCloud, sign into iCloud, access Account Details and turn off any options you don’t want synced to the cloud. You will need to modify the settings on each of your iOS devices, such as iPhones, iPads and Macs. (via Apple)

4. Delete from iCloud, Not Just on Your Device: You may have deleted those pics from your phone, but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist anymore. Just ask actress, Mary E. Winstead, whose photos were stolen in this nudie pic scandal. She confirmed via Twitter that she deleted those photos long ago. To make sure your pics don’t live on post-delete, keep iCloud turned off on your iOS device and your computer to ensure that photos stay right where you want them to. To turn off iCloud on an iOS device, users must access Settings > iCloud and turn off any option that should not sync to the cloud. Turning off iCloud on a Mac, open iCloud preferences, then select or deselect each feature. On a Windows computer, open the iCloud Control Panel, then select or deselect each feature. Click Apply. Can’t keep up with what is syncing to where? Simply delete iCloud. (via Apple )

5. Turn Off “Find My iPhone”: The iCloud breaching is theorized to have happened within the Find My iPhone feature. To keep your privacy truly private, it might be a good option to turn the feature off. To turn off Find My iPhone, users must access Settings > iCloud, then select turn off Find My iPhone. On a Mac, users must access Apple menu > System Preferences > iCloud, then deselect Find My Mac. It might be a good idea to check out this article on Understanding How Apps Interact With iCloud for added security. (via PopSugar)

6. Encrypt Data: Encryption is the process of making your files unreadable with an encryption key or pass phrase, so if somebody gains access to your files, they won’t be able to read them without the encryption key. You don’t need to understand encryption, just know this: It works. To ensure that you’re the only person with access to your data, either opt for a cloud storage service with built-in encryption like SpiderOak or use a service that encrypts files or folders for you, like BoxCryptor. Either way, your photos are under lock and key. (via How Stuff Works)

Bottom line, be careful what you share and even more so about what you think is for your eyes only. Safeguard yourself with these tips and share any cloud tricks you have for us in the comments below!

8 Unbeatable Deals On Apple Products No One Wants You To Know About

Prime Day continues to impress us! Apple products like iPads, iPhones, AirPods, and more are almost never on sale for prices this low. This Prime Day, we’re seeing hundreds of dollars worth of savings, which is especially satisfying if you’ve been thinking about upgrading your current desk set-upor revamping your super old headphones. Scroll on for the 7 best deals on Apple products we’ve found, available for historic sale prices now.

Amazon

Apple Watch Series 9

$280, was $399

This powerful little sidekick is now $119 off for Prime Day! You can do practically everything you do on your iPhone with the Apple Watch, like talking, texting, navigation, and workout and sleep support. It easily syncs up with the rest of your Apple devices for a seamless experience. Plus, all of your activity will be super visible and bright, thanks to the Series 9's clear interface.

Amazon

Apple AirPods (3rd Generation)

$120, was $169

You can save nearly $50 on some brand-new AirPods this Prime Day. The 3rd generation model is snug-fitting, sweat and water resistant, and lightning fast when it comes to communicating with your devices. You get up to 6 hours of listening time with a single charge, which is ample time to listen to your new favorite album or audiobook on repeat!

Amazon

Apple iPad (10th Generation)

$450, was $499

If you like to get things done on the go, the iPad is a total lifesaver. It's way more compact than a laptop, but its small size is still perfectly suitable to see the screen clearly. You can snag it in storage sizes 64GB or 256GB and four different vibrant colors on Amazon right now! This pick is compatible with the Apple Pencil as well as the Magic Keyboard (both are $50 off for Prime Day) based on your usage needs.

Amazon

Apple AirTag

$24, was $29

The AirTag ensures you'll never lose track of your wallet, keys, or backpack ever again. It communicates with the Find My app on your Apple devices, so you can locate your items in a single press of a button! This model even has a built-in speaker than can ring out loud to help you track down what you've (seemingly) lost forever.

Amazon

Apple iPhone 12

$282, was $398

The classic iPhone really speaks for itself, but this $115 off Prime Day deal makes it even better. We all live on our phones, so whether it's for scrolling TikTok, messaging your long-distance pals, or playing games, this device does it all. You can shop from storage sizes 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB and 6 different colors on Amazon right now!

Amazon

Apple AirPods Max

$395, was $549

We're never far from a pair of headphones, and the AirPods Max are definitely the hottest style to rock right now. They deliver high-quality audio through the cushioned ear cups, and you can even toggle between several different noise-cancelling settings. These wear really light on the head and even offer some nice breathability, since the headband is made from a light mesh material. With a single charge, you get up to 20 hours of listening time – and at $154 off, that's a major score!

Amazon

Apple Magic Mouse

$80, was $99

If you've been searching for an excuse to upgrade your clunky computer mouse, this wireless Magic Mouse from Apple is gonna feel like a total treat. It's compatible with both Macs and iPads to help you get the job done. This mouse works silently, too, so you won't ever be distracted by noisy scrolling or clicking again. It even has an incredibly long battery life, operating at full power even if you haven't charged it in a couple weeks!

Amazon

Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation)

$380, was $499

A slightly smaller iPad model, the Mini ($119 off) is still as great as the OG. It features a super bright and impressively clear screen display, fast wifi capability, and tons of storage to handle all your notes, apps, and photos. This model is available in storage sizes 64GB and 256GB and 4 different colorways on Amazon now.

Shop our Amazon storefront to snag more amazing Prime Day deals on beauty, home, fashion, books, and more!

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Romantasy Lovers, ACOTAR Book 6 Is Officially Coming!

The highly-anticipated A Court of Thorns and Roses movie may be canceled, but Sarah J. Maas pulled an uno reverse card that makes up for it. ACOTAR book 6 is in the works and may be here within the next year! As immense lovers of Onyx Storm, we're willing to set that series aside in favor of this one. Call it a hot take, but we think it has arguably one of the best takes onromantasy.

If you're just as excited as we about a new ACOTAR book, let's chat about what's to come!

Everything to know about Sarah J. Maas' plans for the ACOTAR universe, plus fan theories about book 6 👀

Is 'ACOTAR' a BookTok famous series?

Amazon

BookTok is the reason we love the ACOTAR series so much. All it takes is a quick search on TikTok to see how many fan theories, memes, and hot takes exist within its realm. Have an intense dislike for the way Feyre's siblings failed her after their mother died? There's a video for that. Want to see hilarious depictions of the Suriel? You won't be disappointed!

But, I've never read anything in the series? What's it about? 

We thought you'd never ask! A Court of Thorns and Roses introduces readers to the thin line that separates humankind from the mythical world, but boundaries are crossed when a young woman named Feyre unknowingly commits a grave offense. As her family's only hope for survival, she slays a wolf who happens to be a close friend of one of the many high fae in ACOTAR.

As repayment for her "terrible" deed, she's whisked away from everything she knows to live the rest of her life in the spring court. But Feyre soon learns that politics and evil aren't just relegated to humans because she's subject to torment that turns her into what's she still trying to understand.

Throughout each book, we watch as Feyre comes to grips with who she thought she could trust, her perception of herself, and the consequences of each choice she makes.

Knowing this, what will ACOTAR book 6 be about? 

Don't panic, but ACOTAR'ssixth book doesn't have a plot yet! The only sliver of hope we have stems from Sarah J. Maas' appearance on the TODAY show last year. She said, "I know much more about what’s happening in this one. And then the next book in that series, I have the ideas and general, vague thoughts. But the nitty gritty of writing and the emotional journeys with the characters — I usually love to go on those journeys with them.”

Has Sarah J. Maas shared a release date for ACOTAR book 6? 

Sorry, but she hasn't shared a release date for ACOTAR book 6 either! The TODAY show speculates "readers will have to wait a year or two" which makes sense.

What theories do fans have about the next book? 

Fans believe Sarah J. Maas dropped a massive hint about what to expect in her collab video with Spotify last year. Instagram user @just.innis wrote, "Hear me out: spilled the tea, spring, two rings on the same fingers (rose and blue), flowers and doors behind her, "a looong book" ("...Azriel’s wings are the biggest." if you know what I mean), soon... 👀📚🤯."

If you're not familiar, E! News reported this could be an indication that Feyre's sister Elain and Azriel, one of Rhysand's right-hand-men, will get the love story fans have been waiting for. Most fans are in agreement because this Reddit thread dives deeper into the potential lore. @plantsandanimalsdude wrote, "I think …. Elain will decide to reject her mating bond and choose Azriel, taking control over her life after losing her humanity and engagement to a man SHE chose."

A separate Reddit thread starts off with a belief ACOTAR book 6 will be a follow-up to Nesta's story (Feyre and Elain's eldest sister). User@PrestigiousFun782wrote, "...it's pretty clear that Nesta's plot is not done yet. For that my theory is that she will learn a lot about her powers and maybe she would leave the night court..."

However, nothing's set in stone. The only thing Sara J. Maas promised is that ACOTAR book 6 is "going to be a long book."

OMG, I want to catch up on ACOTAR! Where do I start?

Amazon

  • A Court of Thorns and Roses(Book One) — An introduction to Feyre, the high faes, and danger!
  • A Court of Mist and Fury(Book Two) — An exploration of Feyre's conflicted feelings about marrying Tamlin, her growing understanding of Rhysand, and an even darker evil
  • A Court of Wings and Ruin (Book Three) — A tale of 'sleeping with the enemy' to gain important intel that'll save Feyre's new home, albeit with damning consequences that changes everything
  • A Court of Frost and Starlight (Book Four) — A story of rebuilding and healing after mass devastation
  • A Court of Silver Flames (Book Five) — A close look at Nesta Acheron's journey as she learns to accept who she is, how she'll spend the rest of her life, and who she'll come to love

Follow us on Facebook for more updates about ACOTAR book 6!

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This Amazon Portable Phone Charger Is The Best Gadget I've Ever Used

I am a very prepared person, which means I do my best to handle life's unexpected chaos with grace. A recent curveball that I did not prepare for was my phone dying in the middle of New York City. When you live in Manhattan, there's always a show to see, friends to grab margaritas with, and events to attend. That means you lose phone battery pretty quickly, which is exactly the one thing you don't want to go without in the middle of the city.

Ahead of my show at Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, I was #influenced to buy this viral gadget to bring into the stadium with me — and it's the best portable phone charger I've ever used. I can't believe I've gone this long without it!

First Impressions

I grabbed the iWALK Small Portable Charger (which I got for $30), and the first thing I noticed was the size. The whole thing is smaller than my iPhone, meaning that it'll fit in just about any size bag and works with a lot of stadium concert rules!

It comes in multiple colors like pink and teal, but I got it in white.

The Timeline

I left for the concert at 2pm with a fully charged phone. I had to use Spotify, Google Maps, Uber, and my camera all before Taylor even came out, which means that by the time Gracie Abrams and Phoebe Bridgers had finished their opening acts (around 8 pm), my phone was on death's door.

The portable phone charger went right into the port and kept my phone alive for the rest of the night! It also didn't interfere with the audio in any of my recordings, which was super important to me.

Final Thoughts On This Portable Phone Charger

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

This product really surpassed my expectations because of how much power you get from such a small device. I've used it multiple times, and every time I do, my phone ends up fully charged, meaning I have enough battery for another round of adventures and antics.

I'll definitely have it in my bag all summer long. You can search on the internet for some other portable phone chargers for your summer, but this is definitely my favorite.

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16 "Chic" Ways To Add The Cute Scallop Trend In Your Home Decor

Scalloped edges are everywhere in home decor right now, adding major charm to walls, floors, and furniture. This throwback trend leans into the cottage and romantic home decor with classic ribbons, ruffles, checks and stripes making rooms just a little more whimsical, interesting, and modern. Want to embrace the scallop trend in your own home decor? It's all about sprinkling soft, curved edges into your space for a playful, yet sophisticated look – and it's totally affordable to do.

Here are 16 chic ways to add the cute scallop trend to your home decor!

Urban Outfitters

UO Scallop Flush Mount Lamp Shade

Refresh your ceiling lighting with an oversized drum shade with scalloped edges. You'll enjoy the view from the top!

BelArte

BelArte Studio Scallop Wall Mural

Make a bold statement in your dining room, entryway or bedroom with this customized wall mural featuring stripes within decorative scalloped frames, so cute!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Wiggle Switch Plate

A small detail like a scalloped switch plate adds just the right amount of whimsy to a space without spending a ton of dough.

H&M

H&M Metal Wall Shelf

Shelving is a great way to add this fun decorative detail while adding some functionality to your space.

Amazon

Amazon Scallop Bath Rug

Brighten your bath with a scalloped edge in cozy cotton.

Target

Threshold x Studio McGee Gingham Scalloped Outdoor Pillow

Refresh your outdoor space for spring with this gingham scalloped-edge outdoor pillow from Threshold x Studio McGee. Made from recycled polyester, its weather-, UV-, water- and fade-resistant so you can enjoy all season long.

Amazon

Amazon Scalloped Wicker Storage

Stow away toiletries, pantry items, and other essentials in this set of four storage baskets with cute scalloped edges.

Target

Threshold x Studio McGee Scalloped Headboard

This scalloped headboard comes in several colors and prints as well as sizes twin, double, and queen, all under $300.

Amazon

Mayler Yee Scallop Throw Pillow

This set of two shams for just $20 would look great on a newly refreshed spring bed.

Amazon

Modway Emmeline Scallop Desk

Scalloped furniture is all the rage. This charming writing desk is the perfect addition to your guest or kids room.

Urban Outfitters

UO Roma Scalloped 3-Seater Sofa

Playfully modern, this upholstered scallop sofa is sure to get admiring looks from your decor-loving guests.

H&M

H&M Scalloped-edge Lampshade

Dress up your end table or desk lamps with a pretty-in-pink scalloped lampshade.

Etsy

Etsy Scallop Rattan Window Pelmet

Frame windows with a beautiful scallop design for a charming touch.

Etsy

Etsy Vintage Scalloped Edge Ribbon

Love to DIY? Sew a scalloped ribbon to a tablecloth or curtain or simply tie them around curtain rods and vases for a creative look.

Urban Walls

Urban Walls Scalloped Border Wall Decal

This scalloped border comes in varying sizes and colors for a custom look you don't have to paint. It's so easy!

Amazon

Amazon Scallop Jute Rug

Turn a simple jute rug into a decorative showstopper with a cute scalloped edge. It's the best way to anchor a room and inspire your decor!

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The 9 Best TV Shows To Watch On Max This Month

Even if you're sad about all the titles leaving Netflix this month, don't worry. There are plenty of TV shows on Max to fill your queue (and your binge watch hours). And the best part is since March 1 is a Saturday, you can relax all weekend long. From new seasons to brand new premieres, these are the best TV shows coming to Max this month. Check out the shows on Netflix in March too!

Here are the 9 best TV shows to watch in March 2025.

1. Lockerbie: The Bombing of Pan Am 103 Season 1 — Stream on Max March 25, 2025

CNN

In 1988, the bombing of Pan Am 103 led to the deaths of 270 people. Lockerbie explores the investigation that followed the tragedy and allows the victims' family members to talk about their experiences.

Lockerbie: The Bombing of Pan Am 103 season 1 premieres March 25.

2. Paul American — Stream on Max March 27, 2025

Max

You've seen Jake and Logan Paul make YouTube videos, star in movies, and wrestle, but now they're taking on reality TV — and all the vulnerable moments we haven't seen before.

Paul American premieres March 27 and stars Jake Paul and Logan Paul.

3. The Pioneer Woman Season 38 — Stream on Max March 29, 2025

Food Network

Get ready for some delicious, filling, and comfort food recipes thanks to Ree Drummond. The best part about this TV show? She makes you feel right at home!

The Pioneer Woman season 38 premieres March 29 and is hosted by Ree Drummond.

4. ​When No One Sees Us — Stream on Max

Emilio Pereda/Max

This Spanish-language TV show takes you into "deep Spain" — and all its political and cultural criminal activity — during the country's Holy Week festivities. You'll be on the edge of your seat the whole time.

When No One Sees Us premieres March 7 and stars Maribel Verdú, Mariela Garriga, Austin Amelio, Ben Temple, and Dani Rovira.

5. T​he Righteous Gemstones season 4 — Stream on Max

Jake Giles Netter/HBO

The gemstones are back for one last adventure as they prepare for the future — including a foray into Hollywood? Nothing is certain...except for the fact we're definitely going to miss this TV family.

The Righteous Gemstones premieres March 9 and stars Danny McBride, Adam Devine, John Goodman, Edi Patterson, Cassidy Freeman, Tim Baltz, Tony Cavalero, Greg Alan Williams, Skyler Gisondo, Walton Goggins, Jennifer Nettles, James DuMont, Jody Hill, Troy Hogan, Valyn Hall, Kelton DuMont, Gavin Munn, Megan Mullally, Arden Myrin, and Seann William Scott.

6. ​Spring Baking Championship Season 11 — Stream on Max

Food Network

Get your baking on with this Food Network TV show, which welcomes you into The Little Shop of Spring Magic. 13 contestants, all hoping to be named Spring Baking Champion, compete for $25,000 and a Food Network Magazine feature. And they might just inspire your own baking adventures along the way!

Spring Baking Championship Season 11 premieres March 10 and is hosted by Jesse Palmer and features judges Duff Goldman, Nancy Fuller, and Kardea Brown.

7. The White Lotus season 3 — Stream new episodes on Max on Sundays

Max

This season of The White Lotus has introduced new characters, new drama...and a UNC vs. Duke subplot. Sign me up.

The White Lotus season 3 stars Leslie Bibb, Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Carrie Coon, Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger and Blackpink’s Lisa Manobal.

8. One Tree Hill — Stream on Max

Warner Bros. TV

Speaking of Carolina basketball, 'tis the season for March madness, which means it's a good time to rewatch One Tree Hill. The TV show starts out as a brother & basketball rivalry and morphs into a complex relationship drama like none other.

One Tree Hill is available to stream on Max and stars Chad Michael Murray, Sophia Bush, Hilarie Burton, James Lafferty, and Bethany Joy Lenz.

9. Game of Thrones — Stream on Max

Helen Sloane/HBO

If you're in your romantasy era, then you might want to press play on this fantasy drama. It's got everything: romance, political intrigue, and so many incredible costumes.

Game of Thrones is available to stream on Max and stars Emilia Clarke, Sophie Turner, Maisie Williams, Kit Harington, Richard Madden, and Gwendoline Christie (among many others).

Check out the other Most-Anticipated TV Shows Coming In March!

This post has been updated.

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