About Philip Bates
Philip is the Security Editor for MUO, and has worked here since 2014. He’s been a freelance writer since 2012, having trained for an FdA in Professional Writing. He’s written and edited numerous books, and can usually be found reading comics while listening to The Killers.
When Did Apple Become Popular? A Brief History of the Rise of Apple
How did Apple start and when did Apple become popular? We answer these questions and more as we explore Apple's past.
How to See Who Blocked You on Facebook
Worried that someone blocked you on Facebook? There are ways to check for signs of whether that's the case. Here's how to find out.
How to Use Messenger Without Facebook
You can't simply use Messenger without a Facebook account. But there is a smart little workaround so you can have Messenger without Facebook.
13 Common Netflix Error Codes and How to Fix Them
Netflix stopped working? Here are some of the most common Netflix error codes, what each one means, and what you can do to fix the problem.
How to Recognize and Avoid Free Gift Card Scams: 7 Warning Signs
Received an email or social media message saying you've won a free gift card? It's likely a scam. Here's how to tell.
What Does This Emoji Mean? Emoji Face Meanings Explained
Confused by the emojis in that text message you just got? Here are the commonly accepted meanings of popular emojis.
The 12 Most Common Instagram DM Questions, Answered
Everything you need to know about Instagram DMs, from direct message features to how to unsend a DM in Instagram.
What Is Personally Identifiable Information (PII)?
Sometimes called "personal data", PII is valuable to you, to companies, and to hackers. But what is it? What does it include?
What Is Email Spoofing? How Scammers Forge Fake Emails
It looks like your email account has been hacked, but those weird messages you didn't send are actually due to email spoofing.
Can You Trust Your Browser With Credit Card Information?
Shopping online and tempted to save your credit card information in your browser? Here's why you might not want to do that.
Cinema Is Dying: How Movie Theaters Can Ensure Their Survival
Movie theaters need to offer more than just a way of watching the latest films. They need to stop competing on "convenience" and start focusing on "experience." Here's how.
PC Operating Temperatures: How Hot Is Too Hot?
Excessive heat can damage your computer's performance and lifespan. But at what point is it overheating? How hot is too hot?
Why Netflix Is Right to Cancel the Shows No One Is Watching
Netflix has been roundly criticized after announcing a spate of cancellations. However, Netflix is right to cancel the shows no one is watching, and here are all the reasons why.
7 Mistakes You're Making While Using Netflix
If you want to get the most out of Netflix, you need to stop making these small but important errors.
What Is Ghosting on Social Networks? How to Deal With It
Have you sent someone a message on social media or on dating apps and not received a reply? You might've been ghosted. Here's what to do.
How to Change the Playback Speed on Netflix
Have you ever wanted to change the Netflix playback speed? In this article, we'll show you how to watch Netflix faster (or slower).
7 Alternative Ways to Use Tinder That Aren't Hooking Up
Tinder has a reputation as a hook up app, but it actually has non-romantic uses. You can meet new people to hang out with, kill time, or learn a new language. Here's how.
How to Get Someone Off Your Best Friends List on Snapchat
Here's everything you need to know about Snapchat's Best Friends feature, including how to get someone off it.
What Is Kik and Why Do Teenagers Love It?
What is Kik, why are teens using this messaging service, and why does it have a bad reputation? Here's what you need to know.
Are You Responsible for the Death of Cinema?
Cinema is in its death throes. But why? Do we blame the directors of crappy films? The alternative viewing options now available? Or are you personally responsible? Let's figure this out.