For today, we are going to give you the list of Top 5 trending smartphones in August. These brands come with 4GB RAM, 4100mAh battery and more. Let’s go now!

5 most popuar phones in August: 4GB RAM, 4100mah battery and more

 

For today, we are going to give you the list of Top 5 trending smartphones in August. These brands come with 4GB RAM, 4100mAh battery and more. Let's go now!

1. Xiaomi Redmi 4 (4X)

Firstly, on this list of Top 5 trending smartphones in August, please welcome the Xiaomi Redmi 4 (4X). Specifically, the Xiaomi Redmi 4 (4X) specs consist of a 5.0-inch IPS LCD (720 x 1280 pixels). Besides, Xiaomi Redmi 4 (4X) phone takes power from Qualcomm Snapdragon 435 chipset. Moreover, this Xiaomi phone brings in three storage alternatives: 16GB & 4GB RAM, 32GB & 3GB RAM, or 64GB & 4GB RAM. If you need more, you can have the extra memory up to 128GB via microSD.

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About the Xiaomi Redmi 4 (4X) camera, it packs a 13MP f/2.0 primary shooter with LED flash. Also, there is a 5MP f/2.2 selfie snapper. Thus, Xiaomi Redmi 4 (4X) battery might be a massive Li-Po 4,100mAh non-removable cell. Plus, this Xiaomi Redmi 4 (4X) handset supports all the basic connectivity options, including Wi-fi, LTE, GPS, Bluetooth, USB, 3G, and 4G. For the Xiaomi Redmi 4 (4X) price, this phone costs nearly RM. 557 ($130).

2. Nokia 6

Secondly, the Nokia 6 specs come with a 5.5-inch IPS LCD (1080 x 1920 pixels). At the core, Nokia 6 smartphone runs on Qualcomm Snapdragon 430 and Octa-core 1.4 GHz CPU. Furthermore, it provides two types of ROM/RAM – 32GB/3GB and 64GB/4GB (increasable up to 256GB). Moving on, Nokia 6 camera carries a 16MP rear shooter and an 8MP secondary sensor. About the Nokia 6 battery, it owns a Li-Ion non-removable 3000mAh. Nokia 6 price starts from RM. 1163 ($271).

3. Lenovo K8 Note

Thirdly, the Lenovo K8 Note specs contain a 5.5-inch IPS LCD touchscreen. Under the hood, this Lenovo K8 Note device has MediaTek Helio X20 chipset and Android 7.0 (Nougat) OS to run on. In addition, this Lenovo mobile provides a 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM (256GB more via microSD). Furthermore, Lenovo K8 Note camera also offers a 16MP rear shooter with dual-LED flash, with a 12MP sensor for selfies. Lenovo K8 Note price starts at RM. 1519 ($354).

4. Samsung Galaxy J7 Pro

Fourthly, Samsung Galaxy J7 Pro specs bring in a 5.5-inch Super AMOLED touchscreen (1080 x 1920 pixels). Deep inside, this Samsung smartphone runs on Exynos 7870 Octa chipset and Octa-core CPU. Regarding the in-built storage, the Samsung handset provides 32/64GB, along with 3GB RAM (256GB of the external memory). About the Samsung Galaxy J7 Pro camera, it sports a primary, and a secondary, both are 13MP. Samsung Galaxy J7 Pro price starts at RM. 1515 ($353).

5. Apple iPhone 6

Finally, the Apple iPhone 6 specs contain a 4.7-inch LED-backlit IPS LCD. At heart, this Apple phone takes power from Apple A8 chipset and draws a Li-Po 1,810mAh juice box. Additionally, the Apple iPhone 6  handset carries 1GB RAM with 16/3264/128GB ROM (no external storage). Besides, Apple iPhone 6 camera sports an 8MP main shooter with dual-LED and a 1.2MP front snapper. Lastly, Apple iPhone 6 price starts at RM. 2025 ($472).

Top 5 trending smartphones in August: 4GB RAM, 4100mAh battery…

After you've gone through our list of Top 5 trending smartphones in August, which brand has caught your attention by far? Tell us in the comments below!

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How to Improve Computer Performance by Defragmentation

All computer devices get stuck with lots of data that can slow down its processing speed or disable some applications altogether. In order to avoid this kind of problem from occurring and having some irreversible consequences on the hard disk drive of your computer system, then you just have to consider disk defragmentation as a reliable way to improve the performance of your laptop or desktop.

What actually is disk defragmentation? Disk defragmentation is the rearrangement of information and data stored in your computer system so that your device hardware, software drivers could synchronize more effectively and function more efficiently. Disk defragmentation often runs at a programmed interval set by the user and it can equally be run manually. Several operating systems have their various ways of defragmentation. However, we shall emphasis on the Windows 7 operating system and how you could defragment your computer hard disk for greater performance.

 Procedures for Defragmentation

1. Firstly, you open the control panel and type in disk defragmentation on the 'search panel bar' located at the top right hand corner.

2. Under the 'current status' link you can select the disk you wish to defragment. However, remember to provide any password for administrative privileges if prompted.

3. If you are unsure of the disk to defragment, then run a defragmentation analysis to determine the percentage of fragmentation. If it is more than 10% then you should then run a defragmentation procedure on your system by clicking on defragment disk.

4. Defragmentation may take from several minutes to a few hours which generally depend on the amount of fragmented software in your computer system. This means that you can still use your system while the defragmentation goes on.

 5. There are instances when defragmentation of a hard disk may not be possible. If you are using a disk that is formatted in FAT32 and NTFS or exclusively in use in another program. Secondly, disks with errors or that have been damaged by a malware cannot be defragmented. Thus, the disks must be checked properly for errors and the errors fixed before proceeding on defragmentation. Thirdly, network locations cannot be defragmented.

 6 Simple Steps to Check Your Windows 7 OS Hard Disk for Errors

1. If you are using a Windows 7 computer based operating system then you must do a regular check to make sure your hard disks are free from errors. Please follow the procedure below.

2. Click on the start menu on your computer and then click on 'computer' icon.

3. Highlight the hard disk you wish to check for errors by clicking on it. 

4. Then click on properties. 

5. Next, click on the tools bar and select or check the automatically fix errors. You can equally select the 'scan for and attempt recovery of bad sectors' for a more thorough error fix. This process can take a much longer time since the system checks for physical hard disk errors.

6. Lastly, click start.

 10 Ways to Optimize Windows 7 OS For Better Performance       

                               

                               Important Notes

1. Your computer may not fix any errors if any window application is in use. This    process usually takes several minutes to be concluded.

2.  Always give a password when prompted for administrative privileges.  

    The QUICK FIX PC Operating System, Boots any Computer – Windows/OSX/Linux [2014-2016]        

How to Prevent Low Memory Issues in Windows Computers

when your computer does not have the required memory for optimal performance, Windows and some or all of your programs can stop working almost instantaneously. In order to prevent information loss, Windows usually notify you when your computer is low on memory. You can also recognize the signs of low memory in your computer and take adequate steps to prevent the problem.

What are the Obvious Signs of Low Memory?

Some signs of low memory on your computer include poor performance, computer freezing, overheating, low-memory or out-of-memory notifications, and display problems. For instance, if you try to open a menu in a program when your computer is low on memory, the program might freeze, respond slowly or appear to stop responding altogether. If the menu eventually appears, it may not respond when you try to click on an item or it may not display all items correctly. If you click a menu item, the menu may disappear and leaving a blank area on the screen instead of displaying the contents of the document or file you are working on.

 Why Do Low Memory Problems Occur In Computers?

Your computer has two types of memory, the Random Access Memory (RAM) and the Virtual Memory. All programs in your computer use RAM, however when there is no enough RAM for the program you are trying to run, Windows temporarily moves information that would normally be stored in RAM to a file on your hard disk which is called a Paging File. The amount of information or data temporarily stored in a Paging File is referred to as Virtual Memory. Thus, in using virtual memory, data and information are moved to and from the paging file thereby freeing up enough RAM for programs to run efficiently.

Low memory problems occur when your computer runs out of RAM and becomes low on virtual memory. This can happen when you execute or run more programs than the RAM installed on the computer can handle. Low memory problems can also arise when a program does not free up memory that it no longer needs. This problem is called Memory Overuse or a Memory Leak.

 How Can I Prevent Low Memory Problems?

Running fewer programs at a time can greatly help in preventing low memory problems and information loss. It is a good practice to observe which programs show signs of low memory conditions and try as much as possible not to run them at the same time.

However, it is not always convenient or practicable to run a limited number of programs. Signs of low memory may indicate that the computer needs more RAM to support the programs you use. Here are some important and recommended ways to prevent or mitigate low memory problems in your computer.

 

1. Increase the Paging File (Virtual Memory) Size

Windows will automatically attempt to increase the Paging File size the first time your computer becomes low on memory, however, you can also manually increase the virtual up to a maximum size that is determined by the amount of RAM installed. Although increasing the Paging File size can help in preventing low memory problems, it can also make your programs run more slowly. Since your computer reads information and data from RAM much faster than from a hard disk (where the paging file located), creating too much virtual memory available to programs can substantially slow down your computer.

 

2. Install More RAM

If you notice signs of low memory, or if Windows warns you about a low memory issue, check the information that came with your computer or contact the computer manufacturer to determine which type of RAM is suitable or compatible with your computer, and then install more RAM. In order to install RAM, make sure you check the information provided by your computer manufacturer.

 

3. Determine If A Program Overuses Memory

If the computer becomes low on memory whenever you execute or run certain programs, one or more of those programs might have a memory leak. In order to stop a memory leak, you will need to close the program. To repair a memory leak, you will need to check for updates for the program or possibly contact the publisher of the software.

In order to determine which program in your computer is using the most memory, you can follow these steps:

1. Open the Task Manager.(You can access this by typing Task manager in the search box of your control panel)

   2. Click the 'Processes' tab.

To sort programs by memory usage, click 'Memory' (Private Working Set).

You can also check for program errors and troubleshooting information using Event Viewer. You can do this by following these steps:

1. Open the event Viewer
2. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, just type in the password or provide confirmation.
3. In the left pane, click on 'Applications and Services' Logs to view error events. In order to see a description of the problem, you double-click the event. To see if troubleshooting information is available, look for a link to online help.

How To Sell Second Hand Cars Online

 

Sell Second Hand Cars Online

If you are planning to sell used cars online then it is definitely a prudent decision. If you can access the right site for the auction then you will never regret the same.

Are you planning to sell your used car? Are you in a dilemma where to post an advertisement regarding the features and the offer to purchase your second-hand car? Are you anticipating the finest deal available in the market? If the answer to all these questions is YES then you are at the right place. The reason is simple! Here you will get informed about fetching the right deal with the second-hand cars for sale.

If you are planning to give an advertisement in the local newspaper then it is advisable not to go for the same. It is basically because it cannot fetch you the same advantage that you can attain out of the used cars for sale online. Yes, if your preference is to get the foremost deal in the used cars then looking for an authorised market over the Internet is a far better option. The Internet is certainly a very broad market than you actually think of it.

All you are required is to find a site where you can avail the benefit of a better auction. When you explore online then you will find that there are some very good sites available that can serve all your needs in a better way. You can list used cars online through one such trustworthy website like obsads.com. After enlisting the most credible websites to sell used cars online it is the time for you to enter all the necessary information in the specific segment. In order to attract the potential buyers, please be sure, to be honest with all the information and ensure all the details to be complete and transparent.

If you do have the second-hand cars for sale that can receive definite value in the local market then you can enlist yourself with the website which is specialised for the same. It is obvious that most of the people prefer to get a hassle free deal in the online market itself because it will automatically end up different kinds of formalities associated with the deal in the general market. These days, if you can successfully get linked with the authorised website to list used cars online then it is for sure that in the local market itself you will get the finest deal on your second-hand car(s).

If you wish to sell used cars online through the most reliable source available on the Internet then it is advisable to go for the services of 'Obs Ads'. Here you can easily find the classified registration of the used cars for sale online and receive the most deserving deal that you have ever dreamed of. This website is currently a very successful name in the market due to the friendliest support system and a strong base of the buyers in the market. For better advertising and selling of the second-hand cars, you will not find a better source in rest of the market.

  SELL YOUR USED CAR HERE

Oukitel Smartphones You Can Get in Nigeria Right Now

Oukitel is a China-based mobile device manufacturer. The company received mobile phone license in 2008 in China and built its R&D centers in Shanghai and Shenzhen soon after. Oukitel sells devices in limited markets. The company is well known for consistently pushing very strong and affordable smartphones for the low-end market with big battery life into the Android market. One of the key features while buying a new smartphone is its battery capacity. So, if you too looking for a 'big battery' smartphone, one that can last you an entire day with all that regular chatting, video chatting, video watching and social media updates then Oukitel Smartphone is highly recommended for you. Some manufacturer still celebrating 4,000, 5,000, 6,000mAh batteries, Oukitel is taking that to a whole new level. The Oukitel K10000 Pro - which is also available on jumia Global– is currently the smartphone with the biggest battery unit, sporting a large 10,000mAh of battery capacity. It supports OTG function for reverse charge multi devices. If your friend needs power urgently, you can help her. Oukitel specially designed an ID for K10000 Pro. It combines metal perfectly with qualified Australian calf leather, resulting a luxury, unique and honorable smartphone. 5 times tougher than normal! Oukitel K10000 Pro gains corning gorilla glass for the screen, offering great hardness to bear shocks and scratches. K10000 Pro is the successor of K10000 released in 2015. Oukitel K10000 and K10000 Pro are still the "world's largest battery" (10,000mAh!). Great news for Nigerians who long to own one of the Oukitel devices, you can now purchase some of the Oukitel smartphones online in Nigeria through Jumia Nigeria. The Oukitel smartphones that are also available on Jumia Nigeria includes: Oukitel U22 (The world's First 4 Cameras Smartphone) Oukitel K6000 Plus (The world's First 12V/2A Smartphone)  Oukitel K10000 (World's largest battery capacity Smartphone) Oukitel K10000 Pro (World's largest battery capacity Smartphone) Oukitel K4000 Plus Oukitel K6000 Pro Oukitel U7 Max  Oukitel U11 Plus Oukitel U13 Oukitel U15 Oukitel U20 Plus Oukitel C2 Oukitel C3 Oukitel C5 Pro Outlined above are most of the Oukitel devices you can get at Jumia Nigeria right now, their price and specifications (a quick run through) will be highlighted. With phone prices starting from as low as ₦18,000 and going all the way up to ₦70k, if you are shopping for a smartphone and you're on a budget (whether skin tight or very loose), you can be damn sure that there is an Oukitel device for you. Here, some of their devices you can get in Nigeria today: Oukitel U22 Oukitel U22 is the Oukitel's first smartphone that gains 4 Cameras with dual-lens on the front and back. Enjoy SLR experience both taking front scenery and selfies. Key Features 5.5 inch, 1280 x 720 Pixel IPS Screen CPU: MTK6580A Quad Core 1.3GHz System: Android 7.0 2GB RAM + 16GB ROM Primary: 13.0MP +2MP, flash light support Secondary: 8.0MP+2MP, flash light support Support: Ambient Light Sensor, Gravity Sensor, Proximity Sensor, Fingerprint Sensor Dual SIM dual standby 2G: GSM 850/900/1800/1900MHz 3G: WCDMA 900/1900/2100MHz Battery Capacity (mAh):2700mAh Price: From ₦28,800 Buy Oukitel U22 at Jumia Nigeria Here Oukitel K6000 Plus The Oukitel K6000 Plus take a 6080mAh superb huge battery. With the fastest 12V/2A flash charger, you are able to charge the K6000 Plus' 6080mAh battery fully in extremely high speed-only 1 hour and 40 minutes. If you charge a 6080mAh battery smartphone with a 5V/2A charger, it takes about 5 hours while with a 12V/2A charger, it only needs 100 minutes. Key Features Network: 2G / 3G / 4G (Dual SIM — Hybrid) Display: 5.5-inch Full HD Touch Display Software: Android version 7.0 (Nougat) Processor: 1.5GHz Octa-core MediaTek CPU Memory: 4GB RAM and 64GB Internal Memory (with Memory card support) Cameras: 8.0MP front facing camera, 16.0MP rear camera (with flash) Battery: 6080 mAh Li-Ion Battery Other Features: Fingerprint scanner, Reverse charging via OTG, Light Sensor, Gravity Sensor, Proximity sensor Price: From ₦67,599 Buy Oukitel K6000 Plus at Jumia Nigeria Here  Oukitel K10000 The Oukitel K10000, is the "world's largest capacity battery smartphone," according to its manufacturer, and it has a power pack that's 270 percent larger than the DROID Turbo 2. It has a 10,000mAh battery, and it can reportedly be used as a power bank to 'reverse charge' other mobile devices. Key Features Display: 5.5 inch 720x1280 IPS HD Screen CPU: MTK6735 64bit Quad Core 1.0GHz System: Android 5.1 RAM + ROM: 2GB RAM + 16GB ROM Back camera 8.0MP (SW13.0MP) + front 2.0MP (SW5.0MP) Dual SIM dual standby 2G: GSM 850/900/1800/1900MHz 3G: WCDMA 900/2100MHz 4G: FDD-LTE 800/1800/2100/2600MHz Support: 4G,Bluetooth,Touch Focus,Auto Focus,Face Detection,Gravity Sensor,OTG Battery Capacity (mAh): 10000mAh Price: From ₦56,200 Buy Oukitel K10000 at Jumia Nigeria Here Oukitel K10000 Pro Back in December 2015, China-based Oukitel announced the K10000, with a massive 10,000 mAh battery that the company claimed would last up to 15 days on one charge. The K10000 Pro is named after its massive battery capacity, and is the second phone out of Oukitel's K10000 series. K10000 Pro was launched last month June and is now available for purchase on Jumia Nigeria. The Oukitel K10000 Pro brings back the huge 10,000 mAh battery phone with an updated design. Key Features 5.5 inch 1920 x 1080 2.5D IPS 3GB RAM + 32GB ROM Back camera 13MP + Front camera 5MP Support: Ambient Light Sensor,Gravity Sensor,Proximity Sensor CPU: MTK6580A 1.3GHz,Quad Core System: Android 7.0 Dual SIM dual standby 2G: GSM 850/900/1800/1900MHz 3G: WCDMA 900/2100MHz 4G: FDD-LTE 800/1800/2600MHz Battery Capacity (mAh): 10000mAh Price: From ₦72,300  Buy Oukitel K10000 Pro at Jumia Nigeria Here Oukitel K4000 Plus The Oukitel K4000 Plus is the mid-range of the "K series" family, and perhaps the best balanced device of their portfolio, (only) if you are on a "tight" budget.  It's the smallest (as far as the battery capacity is concerned) of the K Series family, with the K10000 Pro and K6000 Plus aimed at more experienced (and more demanding) users. K4000 packs a 4,100mAh battery inside, providing impressive standby/talk time results that you will surely enjoy, and has decent everyday performance, with no problems or mishaps. Key Features Network: 2G / 3G / 4G (Dual SIM) Display: 5.0-inch HD IPS Touch Display Software: Android version 6.0 (Marshmallow) Processor: 1.3GHz Quadcore Mediatek CPU Memory: 2GB RAM and 16GB ROM (with Memory card support up to 32GB) Cameras: 2.0MP front facing camera, 8.0MP rear camera (with flash) Battery: 4100 mAh Li-Ion Battery Other Features: Fingerprint scanner, Anti-smash screen, Gravity sensor, Proximity sensor, LED Notification light, Light Sensor Price: from ₦34,899 Buy Oukitel K4000 Plus at Jumia Nigeria Here  Oukitel K6000 Pro that houses a 6,000 mAh of battery juice at the price of NGN48,999, Oukitel U20 Plus with fingerprint ID unlock at the price of NGN31,200, Oukitel U10 that is fueled by an Octa core processor and fingerprint ID unlock system, Oukitel U7 Pro, U11 Plus and more are available on Jumia Nigeria: Check out the Oukitel Smartphones Deal Here.

Zoto Exclusive Referral is Back Again, Invite Friends & Earn Up To N20,000

It's time to get friendly and Zoto makes it worth your while. The Zoto referrals is back. Same as before, you can make as much as N20,000 by inviting your friends to try Zoto. Hope you remember Zoto? A secure and Fastest way to recharge anywhere in Nigeria with lots of benefits. Zoto Mobile recharge was introduced to you guys on this blog some months back and I'm pretty sure that lots of people benefit from their offers.  I'm glad to inform you that Zoto is back again with their amazing offer. The promo they did last month was just N200 bonus per referral, but this time around, it is N500 airtime bonus per referral! Earn N500 by referring a friend. When someone uses your referral code or link to sign up on Zoto, you both get N500 on their first recharge. Zoto, a mobile money and mobile recharge app, has become Nigeria's most popular app in the shopping category of Google Play Store. The mobile app is rated above Jiji – one of the leading classifieds websites in Nigeria – which comes second, followed by Jumia and Konga apps. Source: Financialnigeria.com Zoto is the best way to recharge, buy data & pay bills anywhere in Nigeria. It's reliable, safe and super fast.  - Recharge any network in less than 10 sec - Every transaction is 100% secure and certified by CBN - Get cashback on your transaction - App works on low data also The platform is available on iOS and Android and has become established as one of Nigeria's best recharge solutions with a 4.5 star rating on the Play Store. If you've never used Zoto, we're happy to invite you to a world of delightful payments and amazing cashbacks. For Android and iOS users, Download Zoto app here. When registering, if asked for a referral code, use FUNSHK NOTE: You will not be able to get your N500, if you register without using a referral code Yes, this has been confirmed, you just have to use a referral code Zoto - Recharge, Data & Bill Payments. There are many more amazing offers on Zoto, simply download the app to enjoy. Also, you can get Flat 50% discount, up to N300. Get N600 for N300. Valid till 31st July, applicable on recharge and bill payment. To Generate Your Referral Code Go to the Account tab on the bottom right corner of the screen Select Invite and Earn, your referral code will be revealed Start sharing your referral code to get as much as N20,000 airtime when you refer friends The current referral program will be ending on Monday 31st. Here are the details of the new referral scheme.     Refer friends and get N500 on your referrals first transaction     Friends referred get N500 on first transaction     Referral bonus is only valid on first card transaction     Maximum referral cash back earned is N20,000 To take advantage of the ongoing N500 referral promo, be sure to refer friends and get them activated before July 31st, 2017! If you have been referred and are yet to make your first transaction, make a recharge before Monday 31st to claim your N500 cashback. Remember, the offer is not last forever. According to the management, it is a limited time offer. You should hurry up and earn N500 by referring a friend!

5 things you should know about the tech industry

There is a lot more to the tech industry than we realize. There are many opportunities to explore in the industry and many misconceptions to dispel; there are also some dynamics to understand, the knowledge of which can help you make smart investments in the tech industry. Here are five things you should know about the tech industry.

1) The Industry is Not all About Coding

The tech industry consists of a lot more than coding. There are lots of jobs and technical skills available in the tech industry aside coding and programming, some of which include: design, data analysis, setting up systems and processes, project management, technical writing, web hosting and so on.

2) Proficiency in Coding Does Not Depend on How Good You are at Math or Science

Coding is about problem solving and logic, and you will find that some of the best coders admit to not being good at or even liking math or science. In fact, coding is easier learned by those coming from backgrounds or professions where problem-solving skills, as well as attention to detail, are involved.

3) There is Room for Creativity

Most people associate technical jobs like those in the tech industry, with a lack of creativity. However, the tech industry is all about finding creative ways to solve the world's tech problems. Aside the data science field in the tech industry, there is also a design field that relies on creativity to come up with attractive phone and laptop designs, as well as website designs and other tech designs we see.

4) The Tech Industry is Not Entirely Male Dominated

It is true that a large percentage of the tech industry is made up of men, but the industry is not completely male dominated. For example, the data science field of the tech industry is mostly made up of men, but the design fields have a larger percentage of women. As much as there might be a lot of men in the tech industry, there is still room for women who are passionate about tech.

5) Profit Margins Really Matter

In the tech industry, competition tends to be fierce and this makes it difficult for companies to maintain their profit margins over the long term. This can lead to disastrous results for investors, as a result investors are very particular about profit margins. Therefore, before buying stocks in the tech industry, investors carefully consider if the company will be able to maintain its pricing power over the long term.

By Damilola Ojo…

Russian man gets 5-yr sentence for developing notorious malware

A US court has sentenced Mark Vartanyan for developing the notorious Citadel malware.

Vartanyan who helped develop the notorious malware called "Citadel" designed to steal personal financial information, was sentenced to five years in prison on Wednesday.

Also known as "Kolypto", Vartanyan pleaded guilty in March to one count of computer fraud after he reached a deal with federal prosecutors and he is the second individual charged in connection to the sophisticated Citadel malware.

The 29-year-old man was arrested in Norway in October 2014 and was extradited to the US in December 2016. US District Court Judge said Vartanyan would receive two years of credit for time served in Norway prior to his extradition.

While living in Ukraine and Norway from 2012 to 2014, Vartanyan allegedly helped in the development, improvement, maintenance and distribution of Citadel, a malware toolkit designed to infect computer systems and steal financial account details, personal data and other sensitive information from targeted computer networks.

Threat actors who used the sophisticated malware targeted and exploited the networks of major financial and government institutions across the globe, including several US financial firms.

According to industry estimates, Citadel infected about 11 million computers globally, resulting in over $500m in losses.

China blocks WhatsApp service

As authorities in China tighten their grip on the internet ahead of a major leadership reshuffle in Beijing, popular messaging service WhatsApp has partially been blocked.

Photo, video and voice messages sent by the Guardian from Beijing were all blocked on Wednesday, but text messages were not affected. Dozens of users in China complain of a total ban on sending any type of messages on WhatsApp.

The ban comes as Chinese officials are preparing for a twice-a-decade leadership shuffle later this year, with various factions within the Communist party jockeying for control of key positions and president Xi Jinping likely to further consolidate power.

However, the company declined to comment on the latest partial ban by Chinese authorities.

China operates the world's largest censorship system, known as the Great Firewall, blocking thousands of websites including popular platforms such as Facebook, Google, Instagram, YouTube and a host of foreign news outlets.

25% rise in data costs raises doubts over NCC’s regulatory interventions

The new 25 per cent hike in cost of acquiring data sevices has raised fresh concern over ability of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to regulate both data and voice sevices in a competative telecommunications sector.

Subscribers of various related services in the industry have complained of the frequency in sudden rise in price, especially the broadband (data) sub-sector, with the latest in the middle of July 2017.

Most service prividers had quietly increased their prices, leading to 30 GigerBite (GB) going from N20,000 to N25,000,

The banking sector is the most affected by both poor data quality serivices and hikes, as many have also lamented that as bulk consumers, relying on data for online banking services, they suffer double tragedy in the hands of service providers.

The proprietor of an Ikeja-based internet serivces outfit, Sendata Cafe, Mr. Gilbert Asoanya, and the Chairman, Lagos branch of the Association of Telecoms Services Consumers of Nigeria(ATSON) said the frequency of increase in data cost in Nigeria had compelled his members to equally hike charges of their services to their public.

"It is now confirmed that Nigeria records the highest cost of data usage in African, if not the world.

" There is no part of the world that I know where 30GB can cost more than $5 (about N16,000).

"But we were buying it at N20,000 , in the past one year, but it has now added about N5000, depending on the service provider.

"We had taken the case up with the Broadband services providers, which have continued to throw it back on the exchange rate as well as blaming it on the charges by the various government agencies, including the NCC."

A senior marketing officer with Smile, one of the broadband companies, on condition of anonymity confirmed that there had not been any reduction in the charges and fees that the operators have been bearing, despite the recession, which had held down growth since 2016.

But a legal practioner and an expert in the industry, Mr. Yinka Abisoye, faulted the system that allows voice services providers, particularly the GSM operators, to go into data services as well.

"When about 10 yeas ago NCC was tinkering about issuing multi-faceted licence for voice-data services, some of us advised against it on the ground that it would lead to poor quality services and at the same time promote unhealthy rivalry in the system.

"What is done in other climes is for a sort of synergy be reached between voice services providers and data providers, such that a sharp line be drawn, in terms of rendering quality service-delivery and cost management.

Another data provider accused the GSM operators of causing some unhealthy competition by reducting price of data services to attract customers, but without offering them quality service in line with international standard .

However, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Umar Garba Dambatta, in a recent chat admitted that Nigeria has witnessed a quantum jump in the rate of data usage, such that the price of broadband is supposed to be affordable by now.

He accepted existence of what he described as possible price war , capable of eroding the supposed gain in the percentage increase in data usage in the country.

He dismissed allegation that NCC has failed in stamping its feet in ensuring standard and stemming price war .

"We are doing all things necessary to forestall a possible price war in the data sub-segment of the telecommunications sector.

"In addition, NCC is looking at other temporary measures in other to ensure that data services improve.

"For instance, we have noticed that the level of data usage is growing, which attests to the earlier assertion by the NCC that data is going to be the next frontier, hence our attempt to introduce the interim price floor for data.

"This is in order to ensure that we do not have a price war or reduced standard .

"This of course met with resistance from the consumers; and because the NCC is a listening agency, we suspended the interim price floor," Dambatta stated.

He continued: "As soon as the report of a special study commiittre set up to look into the data subsector is out, the question will be sorted out with all the stakeholders ,who are expected to provide useful information towards arriving at an acceptable price floor for data.

"We are also looking at other temporary measures in other to ensure that data services improve.

"We are thinking about providing palliatives to smaller operators in the industry, targeted here are those with about 7.5 per cent share of the market.

"We are in discussion with them in order to see how we can help them to provide data services in different parts of the country, even as we are talking with bigger operators to ensure that we find a way to improve the quality of data services."