Tag: WhatsApp

Dowdetector by Ookla: Largest Outages of 2025

In 2025, digital services proved both indispensable and fragile. This year’s largest outages were defined by platform-level disruptions, particularly across video, gaming, and communication platforms, that impacted millions of users. However, given how many individual platforms rely on the same few cloud providers and core systems, the role of centralized infrastructure also played a key role, demonstrating how a single point of failure can still cause disruption to cascade across multiple services simultaneously.

Downdetector® data from 2025 Ookla could analyze millions of user reports and identify the largest website and service outages of the year.

The World’s Biggest Outages of 2025

2025 saw a combination of major outages across gaming, streaming, and social media services, but none were more impactful than the cloud services outages that affected companies across the globe. These large-scale incidents underscored how failures in core infrastructure can ripple outward to millions of users. Here is a look at the largest global outages of 2025, according to Downdetector data.

 

In Europe:

 

  • PlayStation Network global issue topped the EU list with 1.7 million reports.
  • Snapchat saw the second-highest outage activity in the region with 989,559 reports submitted by users.
  • Vodafone’s UK-wide internet outage generated 833,211 reports.
  • WhatsApp caused significant disruption for its users with 621,763 reports.
  • Spotify’s outage recorded 468,334 reports, making it a major non-video streaming event.
  • Odido experienced, within 10 days, two separate outages that totaled 357,685 reports (June 15th) and 382,003 reports (June 25th).

See more 

emporia TOUCHsmart.3 unboxing and first look

Intelligent solutions impress with their simplicity. This is also the case with this mobile phone for seniors, which comes pre-installed with WhatsApp, Signal and Telegram. emporia have also combined a touchscreen with buttons, making it even easier to use. This makes the emporiaTOUCHsmart.3 the most intelligent flip phone on the market. Along with other models we have from the brand we will be also testing this one out over the coming weeks check the unboxing below and the full review at a later date and if you have any questions feel free to ask.

emporia have also brought back the shortcut button. Thanks to these buttons on your senior mobile phone, you can launch your favourite app (WhatsApp, Telegram or Signal) directly and immediately start communicating with your loved ones. The phone is also equipped with a voice assistant, LED torch, alarm clock with snooze function, radio, calendar, etc. Safety in operation and use is also ensured by the patented emporia emergency button, IP44 dust and splash protection, M4/T4 hearing aid compatibility and automatic call acceptance when the phone is opened.

The model also has two cameras (8 MP back camera and 2 MP selfie camera), supports VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and is equipped with the Android OS operating system.

Features

  • Shortcut button for WhatsApp, Signal or Telegram
  • Touchscreen and keyboard in one device
  • Hotspotfunction for internet access
  • emporia emergency call function
  • Automatic call acceptance when the device is opened
  • IP44 protection against dust and splash water

BUY

See our other emporia reviews

Unboxing

Seven in ten don’t trust social media companies to protect them from fraud

Seven in ten social media users do not trust social media companies to protect them from fraud and nearly three-quarters (73%) distrust the ads they see on these platforms. Research commissioned by Bank of Ireland for its latest fraud awareness campaign also reveals that 91% believe social media firms should be banned from profiting off fraudulent ads, while 90% say that financial service advertisers on social media should be required to prove their legitimacy.

Bank of Ireland is also issuing a warning about ‘pump and dump’ WhatsApp investment scams. Fraudsters lure victims via fake social media ads to join an investment WhatsApp group. Posing as a financial investment expert, the fraudster then spreads misleading information to group members about particular companies/stocks. Group members then buy the stock, the price is pumped up due to the increased demand and when the price peaks, the scammers sell (dump) their holdings at a profit, and disappear.

Bank of Ireland fraud research (conducted by Red C, August 2025) reveals:

 

  • 83% of consumers believe that fraud is a big problem in society today
  • 76% say that the risk of fraud scams makes them wary when they shop online
  • 69% of social media users don’t trust social media companies to protect users from fraud
  • 73% of those who use social media now don’t trust adverts on social media
  • 86% of those seeing fraudulent content on social media platforms saw it on Meta platforms
  • 91% feel social media companies shouldn’t be allowed generate revenue from fraudsters placing ads on their platforms
  • 90% feel that companies that advertise financial services on social media platforms should have to prove that the ads are genuine and the company is registered with the Central Bank of Ireland

Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland said: “Social media platforms have become a lucrative hunting ground for fraudsters and consumers are paying the price while technology giants gain revenue. As we launch our new fraud awareness campaign highlighting scams originating via social media, a new spate of ‘pump and dump’ investment fraud is spreading fast, mainly using WhatsApp.

‘With results from the Latest REC C survey, seven in ten consumers now distrusting social media companies to shield them from fraud, and over 90% demanding an end to platforms profiting from scam ads, the message is clear – the public wants protection. It’s time for increased accountability, not just algorithms’

Bank of Ireland’s new fraud awareness campaign launches with the theme ‘Not all social is social’, highlighting the threat of fraud originating via social media platforms. The Bank’s consumer and business fraud education campaign for 2025 focuses on key fraud themes: Investment scams, CEO fraud, invoice redirection, smishing and fake online purchases.  The digitally-led media campaign provides actionable advice from Bank of Ireland’s fraud prevention experts and international cyberpsychologist, Professor Mary Aiken, to protect customers’ financial wellbeing.

Through extensive public affairs and PR activity, the Bank has been campaigning for a change in legislation to better protect consumers from fraud originating on social media channels.

Professor Mary Aiken said: “Fraud online is now an industrialised, platform-enabled phenomenon. Scammers leverage the same targeting and engagement tools legitimate advertisers use; the difference is that families and businesses bear the cost.

“Bank of Ireland’s findings, which show that seven in ten users distrust platform protection and over 90% want an end to profits from scam ads, reveal an overwhelming public appetite for reform. ‘Not all social is social’, much of it is commercial, algorithmic and adversarial. The solution is safety by design, verifying financial advertisers, building friction and warnings into investment journeys, and enforcing clear accountability when systems enable harm. If platforms can target us to buy, they can target protections to keep us safe.”

Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud should contact their bank immediately so that the bank can try to stop the fraud and try to recover funds. Bank of Ireland customers can call the Fraud Team 24/7 on the Freephone line 1800 946 764.

Can You Have Multiple WhatsApp Accounts?

WhatsApp has grown far beyond its origins as a free texting app. In 2025, the service counts over 2.8 billion monthly active users worldwide, making it the most-used messaging platform on the planet. It processes more than 100 billion messages daily, a volume unmatched by competitors like Telegram or Signal.

With so much of daily communication – personal chats, business updates, even customer service—flowing through WhatsApp, a natural question arises: can you run multiple accounts on the same phone? For freelancers balancing client groups, small business owners separating sales from personal life, or anyone with both personal and professional networks, this is not a trivial issue.

The short answer: yes, it’s possible, but with caveats. WhatsApp’s official app still treats each account as tied to one phone number, yet over the past two years Meta (WhatsApp’s parent company) has added features that make managing multiple accounts far less painful than before.

One account, one number: the starting point

By design, WhatsApp accounts are linked to a single mobile number. Verification happens via SMS or voice call, and the account identity remains locked to that number. Unlike Instagram or Gmail, you cannot simply add multiple logins under one app profile.

This simplicity is one reason for WhatsApp’s global adoption—it reduces spam and identity abuse. But it also creates friction for users who legitimately need more than one account.

The dual-SIM solutionTwo numbers, two WhatsApps

For years, the main workaround was using a dual-SIM phone. Many Android devices—especially in markets like India, Brazil, and Southeast Asia—ship with two SIM slots. That lets you activate two WhatsApp instances: one for each number.

Some manufacturers (Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus) even ship a “Dual Apps” or “App Twin” feature in their Android skins. This clones the WhatsApp app, allowing you to run both accounts side by side with separate icons. In practice, this gives you two fully functional WhatsApps on one device without third-party hacks.

On iOS, the path was messier. Until recently, you could only run one WhatsApp per iPhone, unless you installed the business version (WhatsApp Business) alongside the consumer app. That gave you two accounts but forced you to juggle different interfaces.

Official support arrives: WhatsApp’s multi-account feature

In late 2023, Meta announced official support for multiple accounts in the same WhatsApp app—at least on Android initially. By 2024, the rollout expanded globally. Users can now add a second account under “Settings → Accounts → Add Account” and switch between them without logging out.

The feature was designed for people carrying both personal and work numbers. You still need a second phone number (SIM or eSIM), but you don’t need to juggle two apps or third-party clones.

This update was overdue. Meta’s own research showed that nearly 20 percent of WhatsApp users in emerging markets already relied on unofficial methods to run multiple accounts. Bringing the feature in-house reduced security risks while aligning WhatsApp with competitors like Telegram, which has allowed multi-account switching for years.

WhatsApp Business as a workaround

Even before multi-account support, many users paired the regular app with WhatsApp Business. Originally built for SMEs, WhatsApp Business supports catalogs, automated greetings, and labels for customer chats. But technically it functions as a second WhatsApp tied to another number.

Today, many freelancers still use this combo: personal conversations in the consumer app, client interactions in the business app. Meta reports that over 200 million people worldwide actively use WhatsApp Business monthly, making it one of the most successful “secondary” apps in its portfolio.

Limitations and risks

Despite progress, multiple accounts on WhatsApp aren’t seamless. Key issues include:

  • One number per account: You still cannot merge accounts or run one number across two devices without using the “Linked Devices” feature (and even that has limits).
  • Backups are account-specific: Each account needs its own cloud backup in Google Drive or iCloud. Switching phones means migrating each separately.
  • Notification clutter: Running two accounts means double the notifications. While you can set custom ringtones and mute groups, management still requires discipline.
  • Policy compliance: Meta bans unauthorized modded versions of WhatsApp (like GBWhatsApp or YoWhatsApp), which some people used for multi-account access. Using these can result in permanent bans.

    Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I use two WhatsApp accounts on one phone?
    Yes. On Android, you can either use the built-in “Dual Apps” feature from your manufacturer or WhatsApp’s own multi-account support. On iOS, you can combine the main app with WhatsApp Business, or rely on the official multi-account rollout once it reaches all devices.
    Do I need two SIM cards?
    Yes, you need two phone numbers. These can be physical SIMs, an eSIM, or a virtual number that receives SMS. WhatsApp requires each account to verify via a unique phone number.
    Can I use the same number for two accounts?
    No. WhatsApp does not allow one number to run two accounts. However, the same account (tied to one number) can be mirrored across multiple devices using the Linked Devices feature, which supports up to four secondary devices.
    Is WhatsApp Business mandatory for multiple accounts?
    Not anymore. With WhatsApp’s native multi-account feature, you can manage multiple accounts in the same app. WhatsApp Business remains useful if you want business-specific tools like product catalogs or chat labels.
    Will I get banned for using cloned apps?
    Possibly. Meta warns that unofficial mods or clones violate its terms of service. While millions still use them, bans are not uncommon. The safer path is to stick to WhatsApp’s official app or the Business variant.
    Can I separate notifications for each account?
    Yes. On both Android and iOS, you can assign custom tones and notification settings per account, making it easier to distinguish between personal and professional messages.

 

Ireland’s Favourite Online Games in 2025

It’s no secret that Ireland has a strong gaming community. 2025 has shown just how wide the country’s tastes have become. From strategy-based multiplayer hits to casual mobile titles, Irish players are spending their evenings exploring new worlds and sharpening their skills. The rise of eSports, the improvement in internet speeds, and the accessibility of affordable gaming laptops have all helped fuel this momentum. It makes gaming part of everyday conversation from Cork to Donegal.

Multiplayer Games Take the Lead

Irish players have moved well beyond single-player adventures. Online gaming is the preferred choice for many. Social features, regular updates, and in-game events pull in steady crowds. Whether it’s five-minute sessions on mobile puzzle games during a Luas ride or late-night raids in MMO universes, players are finding ways to slot gaming into their routines.

Casino games have also carved out a place as a popular genre among Irish gamers, sitting alongside puzzle titles and RPGs in many players’ libraries. For those exploring this side of gaming, recommended casino sites not on GamStop offer a wide selection of slots, card games, and live dealer experiences that appeal to players seeking a mix of entertainment and chance. It’s another layer in Ireland’s diverse gaming appetite in 2025, showing how players continue to blend different gaming experiences to suit their tastes and schedules.

Mobile Titles Continue to Dominate

On the other hand, mobile games remain Ireland’s most popular way to play. Titles like Royal Match, Clash of Clans, and EA Sports FC Mobile are consistently among the top downloads. These games offer quick sessions that don’t require heavy data use. They thrive on simplicity while still giving players the satisfaction of levelling up or competing with friends.

The social side of mobile gaming can’t be ignored either. Irish players are forming local WhatsApp groups to organise clan wars, share tips, or simply have a laugh after a close match. This sense of connection is one reason mobile games continue to outperform expectations. Even as high-spec consoles attract players with stunning visuals.

The Steady Growth of PC and Console Multiplayer

Despite the dominance of mobile gaming, PC and console titles still hold a firm place in Irish homes. Games like Call of Duty: Warzone, Fortnite, and Valorant remain popular. Players are always keen to improve their skills while catching up with friends online. Esports tournaments, often streamed on platforms like Twitch, have added a competitive edge that many Irish gamers find appealing.

Titles with strong Irish player bases often feature regular updates and seasonal events that keep them fresh. Games like FIFA 25 and Rocket League continue to draw in crowds with their familiar gameplay and new challenges. Story-heavy games such as Elden Ring and Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty expansions are being enjoyed by players who still prefer immersive single-player experiences when they get the time.

A Niche Love for Indie and Retro

Not every player in Ireland is after the newest AAA release or the latest season pass. Indie games and retro titles have carved out a steady niche. Players are exploring creative puzzle games, narrative-driven adventures, and re-releases of classics. Titles like Stardew Valley, Hades, and Dave the Diver are often discussed in Irish gaming forums. This shows there’s still a strong appetite for games that focus on storytelling and unique gameplay without heavy monetisation.

Emulators and retro handhelds have also become more visible at local gaming meetups. From Pokémon Red to Super Mario Bros., retro gaming is acting as a link between generations. They can bring families together in a way few hobbies can.

The Influence of Irish Streamers

Irish gaming influencers on Twitch and YouTube continue to play a role in shaping what games are popular locally. When an Irish streamer picks up a new game or returns to an older title, it often sparks a wave of interest among their followers. This peer-led approach to gaming recommendations has a notable impact on download trends and online discussions within the community.

These streamers also provide a sense of familiarity for Irish viewers, using local humour and references while playing. All this adds a comforting layer of relatability. It’s another reason why Irish gaming culture has developed its own identity in 2025. One that feels connected while still exploring global trends.

The Social Thread in Ireland’s Gaming Scene

One clear thread throughout Ireland’s favourite games in 2025 is their ability to bring people together. Whether it’s dropping into a quick match of Among Us with friends, joining a community Minecraft server, or competing in an online FIFA league, games have become a steady background in many Irish social circles.

As broadband access improves and gaming becomes even more accessible across devices, Ireland’s favourite online games are likely to keep changing. Yet the core reasons why people play, connection, challenge, and a chance to unwind, remain the same. Gaming will continue to hold its place in Irish culture.

 

Online Anonymity in 2025: How Proxies and VPNs Keep You Secure and Hidden

Every tap, every swipe, every app you open — it all leaves a trace. In 2025, your digital fingerprint is more than metadata. It’s currency. Advertisers, data brokers, and yes, even malicious actors, track where you’ve been and what you’ve done online. That’s where anonymity tools like proxies and VPNs come in.

Used right, these tools let you vanish in plain sight. And sometimes, they’re essential just to use your favorite apps. For example, if you’re in a region where restrictions apply, a proxy for WhatsApp helps bypass blocks without raising red flags.

But how do proxies work compared to VPNs? Are they secure? Let’s get into the details — without the tech jargon overload.

Proxy vs VPN: Same Goal, Different Routes

Both proxies and VPNs hide your real IP address. That’s the basic idea. But the way they do it — and what else they offer — varies quite a bit.

Proxies

A proxy server acts as a middleman. You request a website. The proxy grabs it for you and forwards it to your device. The site only sees the proxy’s IP, not yours. There are different types:

  • HTTP proxies: Only work for websites (not apps).
  • SOCKS5 proxies: More versatile, can handle games, torrents, apps.
  • Transparent proxies: Often used by employers or schools for content filtering.

VPNs

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) tunnels all your internet traffic through an encrypted connection. Unlike most proxies, VPNs cover every app, every tab, every byte.

What makes VPNs powerful:

  • Full-device encryption.
  • Stronger privacy for public Wi-Fi use.
  • Often include features like DNS leak protection, kill switches, and anti-tracking tools.

Still, proxies have their strengths, especially when you only need to mask your IP for a single app or task, without slowing down your whole device.

When Do You Actually Need These Tools?

You don’t need to be Edward Snowden to justify wanting privacy. Here’s when VPNs or proxies are more than just helpful — they’re essential.

Everyday Use Cases

  • Accessing region-locked content: Some platforms show different stuff depending on where you are.
  • Working remotely: Need to access tools that are only available in your company’s country or on a secure IP list.
  • Securing public Wi-Fi: Cafes, airports, hotels — all risky without encryption.
  • Social media messaging: In certain countries, apps like WhatsApp or Telegram may be blocked.

Specific Scenarios

  • SEO and scraping: Use proxies to pull data from search engines without getting blacklisted.
  • Ad verification: Ensure your ads are shown as intended in different geos.
  • Price comparison and automation: Masked IPs help avoid fake price hikes or usage limits.

No matter the case, the right setup gives you control back over your digital footprint.

Pros and Cons: What You Should Know

Let’s break it down so it’s not just a buzzword comparison.

Comparison Table: Proxy vs VPN

Feature Proxy VPN
Speed Lightweight and fast May slow down your connection
Scope App-specific Full-device
Security Limited encryption Encrypts all traffic
Ease of Use Requires manual setup One-click apps, user-friendly
Cost Cheap, scalable for bulk use Varies; often higher for quality service
Leak Risks DNS/WebRTC leaks possible if misconfigured Usually protected with DNS leak tools
Versatility Best for single-purpose tasks Great for general privacy and public Wi-Fi
Blocking Risk Less likely to be blocked Some services block known VPN IPs
Anonymity Level Moderate Stronger privacy and anonymity

This table helps visualize key differences at a glance. Choose the tool that aligns with how you browse, what you access, and how much privacy you want.

How to Choose Between a Proxy and VPN

Choosing the right tool depends on your specific needs. Start by thinking about what you’re using it for. If you’re mainly unblocking streaming services or using messaging apps, a proxy usually does the job well and doesn’t slow things down. On the other hand, if you’re logging into sensitive accounts or browsing on public Wi-Fi, a VPN gives you stronger encryption and peace of mind.

Budget also plays a role. Proxies are generally more affordable and easy to scale for teams or automation-heavy workflows. VPNs tend to cost more, but the added security may be worth it if you’re handling personal or business-critical data.

Now, think about your comfort level with tech. VPNs are typically easier for beginners — most offer apps you just turn on. Proxies often need manual setup and a bit of tinkering, but they offer more flexibility for advanced tasks like SEO tools, sneaker bots, or ad testing.

Speed is another factor. Since proxies don’t encrypt your traffic, they’re often faster. That’s handy for streaming, gaming, or scraping large datasets. VPNs can be slower due to encryption, though premium providers minimize this.

Finally, consider how private you need to be. If you’re after complete anonymity and don’t want your ISP or any third party seeing what you’re doing, a VPN is the safer choice.

Some experienced users even combine both: running a proxy inside a VPN tunnel to layer speed with encryption. Just know what each part is doing — and why — before you stack them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best tools won’t help if you misuse them. Here are a few common slip-ups:

  • Not checking DNS leaks: Use tools to test if your real DNS is exposed.
  • Using free services: You’re the product. Avoid freebies unless you like being tracked.
  • Ignoring app-specific settings: Some apps bypass system settings. WhatsApp or Zoom, for instance, may still leak info.
  • No kill switch: If your VPN drops, your IP might leak. Make sure that feature is turned on.

Spend 5 extra minutes configuring things right. Saves you hours of regret later.

Who Should Absolutely Be Using These Tools

Still unsure if this applies to you? Here’s a quick rundown.

  • Freelancers and digital nomads: You travel, but your accounts don’t have to look suspicious.
  • Remote workers: Protect sensitive logins and data.
  • Crypto traders: Security is everything.
  • Marketing professionals: Run multiple accounts, check SERPs, test geo-ads.
  • Everyday users: If you value privacy even a little, it’s worth the switch.

Final Thoughts

Anonymity online isn’t about being shady. It’s about safety. In an era of mass data collection, the choice to be invisible should be yours — not a luxury, not a workaround.

Whether you go for a VPN or choose a proxy for WhatsApp, remember that no tool is magic. The best defense? A mix of the right tech and smart habits.

So, update your setup. Check your permissions. And stop giving your data away for free.

One WhatsApp account, now across multiple phones

Mark Zuckerberg just announced that you can now use the same WhatsApp account on multiple phones. Finally says WhatsApp users including myself so check out the details below for more.

Last year, they introduced the ability for users globally to message seamlessly across all their devices, while maintaining the same level of privacy and security.

Today, they are now improving multi-device offering further by introducing the ability to use the same WhatsApp account on multiple phones.

A feature highly requested by users, now you can link your phone as one of up to four additional devices, the same as when you link with WhatsApp on web browsers, tablets and desktops. Each linked phone connects to WhatsApp independently, ensuring that your personal messages, media, and calls are end-to-end encrypted, and if your primary device is inactive for a long period, we automatically log you out of all companion devices.

Linking phones as companion devices makes messaging easier. Now you can switch between phones without signing out and pick up your chats where you left off. Or if you’re a small business owner, additional employees are now able to respond to customers directly from their phones under the same WhatsApp Business account.

This update has started rolling out to users globally and will be available to everyone in the coming weeks.

Also rolling out over the coming weeks, we’re introducing an alternative and more accessible way to link to companion devices. Now you can enter your phone number on WhatsApp Web to receive a one-time code, which you can use on your phone to enable device linking, rather than having to scan a QR code. We look forward to introducing this feature to more companion devices in the future.

New Privacy Features on WhatsApp

Today, Mark Zuckerberg announced that WhatsApp is bringing three new privacy features to users, giving them more control over their conversations and added layers of protection when messaging. Which ties in well with the news release as I had a new update noted on my phone.

Mark Zuckerberg’s Announcement & Quote: “New privacy features coming to WhatsApp: exit group chats without notifying everyone, control who can see when you’re online, and prevent screenshots on view once messages. We’ll keep building new ways to protect your messages and keep them as private and secure as face-to-face conversations.” – Mark Zuckerberg, Founder and CEO, Meta

  • Leave Groups Silently: Users will be able to exit a group privately without having to notify everyone. Now, instead of notifying the full group when leaving, only the admins will be notified. This feature starts to roll out to all users this month.
  • Choose Who Can See When You’re Online: Seeing when friends or family are online helps us feel connected to one another, but we’ve all had times when we wanted to check our WhatsApp privately. For the times you want to keep your online presence private, we’re introducing the ability to select who can and can’t see when you’re online. This will start rolling out to all users this month.
  • Screenshot Blocking for View Once Messages: View Once is already an incredibly popular way to share photos or media that don’t need to have a permanent digital record. Now we’re enabling screenshot blocking for View Once messages for an added layer of protection. We’re testing this feature now and look forward to rolling it out to users soon.

These new updates join WhatsApp’s growing list of privacy features that users can take advantage of including end-to-end encryption, block and report, two-step verification, end-to-end encrypted backups, disappearing messages, and more.

WhatsApp gets full emoji keyboard including skin tone selector and file sending now up to 2GB

Mark Zuckerberg just announced that Reactions on WhatsApp is expanding to include a full emoji keyboard meaning people will now be able to use any emoji when reacting to a message on WhatsApp. As part of the full keyboard, users will also have the ability to select a different skin tone for emojis.

In addition, you can now send files within WhatsApp up to 2GB in size at a time, protected by end-to-end encryption. This is an increase from the previous limit of 100MB and we think will be helpful for collaboration among small businesses and school groups. We recommend using WiFi for larger files and we’ll display a counter while uploading or downloading to let you know how long your transfer will take.

Full story HERE