Check if static block is enabled in magento

In this post we are discussing about how we can check if static block is enabled in magento
For that first we need to create an static block and please note down the block identifier, we need the block identifier to check its active or not

Now here is the code to do so

Mage::getModel('cms/block')->load('identifier')->getIsActive()

In the above code replace the identifier with the one we created

WhatsApp Bans Users for Using WhatsApp Plus

Whatsapp bans users for using third part app for whatsapp named whatsapp plus and its been stated in their FAQ section

WhatsApp Plus is an application that was not developed by WhatsApp, nor is it authorized by WhatsApp. The developers of WhatsApp Plus have no relationship to WhatsApp, and we do not support WhatsApp Plus. Please be aware that WhatsApp Plus contains source code which WhatsApp cannot guarantee as safe and that your private information is potentially being passed to 3rd parties without your knowledge or authorization.

Please uninstall your application and install an authorized version of WhatsApp from ourwebsite or Google Play. Then, you will be able to use WhatsApp.

In reply WhatsApp Plus says

All the whatsapp plus users do give a negative ratings and review on the original version on playstore or appstore…

WhatsApp Plus inc.   WhatsAppPlusinc    Twitter

The company is now asking users to uninstall WhatsApp+ and install an authorised version of WhatsApp from official website or Google Play to reuse the service, although the 24-hour ban period will reportedly remain in effect for the full duration despite replacing or uninstalling the app.

DoT Reportedly Orders Blocking of 32 Websites Including GitHub, Archive.org, SourceForge

Several websites, including many software development resources such as GitHub and SourceForge, along with research resources like the Internet Archive have all been blocked on order of the Department of Telecom. A letter circulating online shows a list of 32 URLs that ISPs have reportedly been ordered to block, with most of these URLs being entire websites, instead of specific webpages that’s usually been the case with such blocks in the past.

blocked_sites_dec14

Such blocks in the past have been due to John Doe orders but the fact it is targeting software development sites like Github and Sourceforge is strange – the John Doe orders have specifically been used to block piracy of films, and blocking off sites that have no connection to movies makes no sense.

Arvind Gupta, the National Head of the BJP IT cell also took to Twitter, stating that these websites were being blocked for security reasons, based on the advice of the Anti-Terrorism Squad. According to Gupta’s Tweets, the sites were being unblocked as soon as they removed “objectionable materials”, allegedly related to ISIS.

Facebook updates terms, data policy, and cookies policy

Facebook pushed a rare service notification to users on Tuesday, reminding millions of the social network’s members of updates to its terms, data and cookies policies, advertising systems, and new privacy controls.

The notification says

By using our services after January 1, 2015, you agree to our updated terms, data policy, and cookies policy and to seeing improved ads based on apps and sites you use. Learn more below about these updates and how to control the ads you see.

Here are some highlights:

  • Discover what’s going on around you: We’re updating our policies to explain how we get location information depending on the features you decide to use. Millions of people check into their favorite places and use optional features like Nearby Friends (currently only available in some regions). We’re working on ways to show you the most relevant information based on where you are and what your friends are up to. For example, in the future, if you decide to share where you are, you might see menus from restaurants nearby or updates from friends in the area.
  • Make purchases more convenient: In some regions, we’re testing a Buy button that helps people discover and purchase products without leaving Facebook. We’re also working on new ways to make transactions even more convenient.
  • Find information about privacy on Facebook at the moment you need it: To make them more accessible, we moved tips and suggestions to Privacy Basics. Our data policy is shorter and clearer, making it easier to read.
  • Understand how we use the information we receive: For example, understanding battery and signal strength helps make sure our apps work well on your device. We ask for permission to use your phone’s location when we offer optional features like check-ins or adding your location to posts.
  • Get to know how the family of Facebook companies and apps work together: Over the past few years, Facebook has grown and we want to make sure you know about our family of companies, apps and services. We use the information we collect to improve your experience. For example, if you’re locked out of your Instagram account, you can use your Facebook information to recover your password. Nothing in our updates changes the commitments that Instagram, WhatsApp and other companies have made to protect your information and your privacy.
  • Your information and advertising: People sometimes ask how their information is shared with advertisers. Nothing is changing with these updates—we help advertisers reach people with relevant ads without telling them who you are. Learn more about ads and how you can control the ads you see.

Read more at Facebook.com