Creating A Presence For Your Business Online With Search Engine Optimization

The aim for business owners when developing a website and online presence is to show up at the top of internet search engines.  The goal is to standout above the competition whether you are online or in person.  To do this your business must include search engine optimization in their website design and marketing plan.  Search engine optimization, otherwise known as SEO, is the process of promoting your website to search engines in order to achieve higher rankings.  Different companies offer their own distinct methods to do this for customers.  Below are some powerful SEO strategies to consider and others to avoid when looking to increase your search engine rankings.

Your site must be optimized properly to engage your target market.  Bringing visitors to your site that are not your intended market is of no use to you as a business owner.  Your SEO must optimize your site to create traffic from your desired target.  Your content is what will help bring the traffic to your site if properly optimized; the graphic design and layout will keep them there.

Not only does the sites content need to be optimized the site itself should be built and coded in a manner that search engines can clearly identify what your business offers.  It is crucial that your site is optimized for several keywords and their variations.  Search engines analyze your site metatags in order to determine what your site offers.

When creating your sites backend metatags don’t keyword stuff or over optimize key phrases.  This is seen as a black hat technique and many search engines will black list your website until they see vast improvements.  Natural use of keywords within your site metatags is the best option to appease search engines.  Consider using several variations of your keyword throughout the backend of the site.  Analysis of your website should be conducted to ensure that your keywords and variations don’t comprise more than twenty percent of the sites content for optimum results.

When choosing a url be aware that this is also an integral part in SEO.  Your site url and page names should not only be relevant to the site content but also memorable.  When choosing a url for your site avoid the use of special characters as these make it more difficult for users to remember.   Add keywords and their variations to the sites many different pages. For instance a contact us page can turn into contact our search engine optimization experts.  Your base url needs to be simple and easy to remember.  Side page urls need to be site descriptive and optimized to bring the best search engine results.

SEO is an ever changing process.  Work with professionals in the search engine marketing process that understand they must adjust the techniques they employ as time progresses.  Using SEO techniques that worked last year is not a guarantee for success this year.  You must work with an expert that understands the ever changing ways search engines are looking for when ranking websites.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repair as well as a variety of commercial computer services and SEO serivces to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas.  You can find out more about the services offered by CPS at http://www.cpsmi.com.

Google eavesdropping tool installed on computers without permission

Privacy advocates claim always-listening component was involuntarily activated within Chromium, potentially exposing private conversations

Privacy campaigners and open source developers are up in arms over the secret installing of Google software which is capable of listening in on conversations held in front of a computer.

First spotted by open source developers, the Chromium browser – the open source basis for Google’s Chrome – began remotely installing audio-snooping code that was capable of listening to users.

It was designed to support Chrome’s new “OK, Google” hotword detection – which makes the computer respond when you talk to it – but was installed, and, some users have claimed, it is activated on computers without their permission.

“Without consent, Google’s code had downloaded a black box of code that – according to itself – had turned on the microphone and was actively listening to your room,” said Rick Falkvinge, the Pirate party founder, in a blog post. “Which means that your computer had been stealth configured to send what was being said in your room to somebody else, to a private company in another country, without your consent or knowledge, an audio transmission triggered by … an unknown and unverifiable set of conditions.”

The feature is installed by default as part of Google’s Chrome browser. But open source advocates are up in arms about it also being installed with the open source variant Chromium, because the listening code is considered to be “black box”, not part of the open source audit process.

“We don’t know and can’t know what this black box does,” said Falkvinge.

Opt-in or opt-out

Google responded to complaints via its developer boards. It said: “While we do download the hotword module on startup, we do not activate it unless you opt in to hotwording.”

However, reports from developers indicate otherwise.

After having identified Chromium as the culprit, developer Ofer Zelig said in a blog post: “While I was working I thought ‘I’m noticing that an LED goes on and off, on the corner of my eyesight [webcam]’. And after a few times when it just seemed weird, I sat to watch for it and saw it happening. Every few seconds or so.”

Google also blamed the Linux distribution Debian for downloading the non-open source component with Chromium automatically, rather than Google Chrome.

“The key here is that Chromium is not a Google product. We do not directly distribute it, or make any guarantees with respect to compliance with various open source policies,” Google developer mgiuca said.

Falkvinge countered Google’s explanations saying: “The default install will still wiretap your room without your consent, unless you opt out, and more importantly, know that you need to opt out, which is nowhere a reasonable requirement.” He says a hardware switch to disable the microphone and camera built into most computers is needed.

Voice search functions have become an accepted feature of modern smartphones, but their movement into the home through the smart TV, and now browser, have caused concerns over the possibility of being listened to within the home.

While most services require a user to opt in, privacy advocates have questioned whether their use, which requires sending voice recordings over the internet to company servers for processing, risks unintentionally exposing private conversations held within the home.

Original Source: http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/jun/23/google-eavesdropping-tool-installed-computers-without-permission

Mac attack! Nasty bug lets hackers into Apple computers

Some Apple Macs have a particularly terrible flaw that lets hackers sneak in and remain undetected, a security researcher has found.

It means a hacker could -- from far away -- force a Mac into a coma. Personal, corporate or government Macs could be spied on in a way that even the best security checks wouldn't discover -- until it's way too late.

"This is scary," said Sarah Edwards, a forensic analyst at the SANS Institute who specializes in reviewing computers for evidence of hacks. "I would never see this. There could be funky stuff going on in the computer system, and I would never know why."

What makes this one so bad? It's a computer bug that runs especially deep in the machine.

All computers have some kind of basic input/output system (BIOS), the core program that brings a machine to life. It's the kind of thing you should never tamper with. And it should obviously remain heavily guarded.

But Macs purchased one year ago or before, apparently, leave a door open.

When a Mac goes into sleep mode and wakes back up, it allows direct access to the BIOS. It's a weird quirk that lets someone tamper with the code there. That's what was discovered recently by Pedro Vilaça, a curious independent computer security researcher in Portugal.

He revealed this vulnerability publicly in a blog post last Friday. He told CNNMoney he alerted Apple directly soon thereafter.

Apple (AAPL, Tech30) did not respond to questions about this flaw -- nor would it say when it plans to release an update to fix it.

Several cybersecurity experts confirmed to CNNMoney that this is a real problem, and they plan to research further in the next few weeks.

This isn't an easy hack. An attacker first needs administrative access to a machine. But what this means is that if a Mac gets hacked with a low-level computer virus, it can bury so deep you'll never find it.

That's the real problem here. It gives hackers more time to plot a massive bank heist or a huge corporate takedown, like the Sony Pictures hack.

So, who's in real danger? High-value targets: think company executives, bankers, politicians, the wealthy, journalists, or anyone else worth spying on for a long period of time.

The average Mac user doesn't have to worry about this one, because they're actually susceptible to cheaper, easier hacks -- that are easier to spot and fix. So says Katie Moussouris, an executive at HackerOne, which helps companies fix dangerous computer bugs.

Tod Beardsley, a security research manager at cybersecurity firm Rapid7, stressed that most Mac users aren't likely to get hacked because of this bug. He said the flaw is "certainly surprising ... but the bar of difficulty is pretty high."

This is the second major flaw in Apple devices discovered in the last week. Recently, people discovered that you can crash someone's iPhone simply by sending it a text message.

Vilaça decided not to name this bug. But every major computer flaw nowadays deserves a name. Given that it involves a poisonous kiss that wakes a sleeping Mac, Moussouris suggests this one: Prince Harming.

Original Source: http://money.cnn.com/2015/06/03/technology/mac-bug/

Leaders In Computer Virus Removal Brighton, MI

We clean all virus, spyware and malware infestations. If you have a computer virus infestation, we have the solution; unlike other companies, we protect your data. We can even completely reload your operating system without losing any data. Too many times we have seen other computer repair companies format hard drives to clean them. This is just unacceptable. We remove viruses with painstaking care, and with over 50 years of combined experience in our shop we do it right. Any virus, any computer; we clean it, and we clean it right.

Viruses on your computer come in every shape, size and form. We see viruses coming from a range of sources pretending to be the FBI, NAS and even the United States Department of Justice. You guessed it, click on the link and your computer has just become infected. A virus will not come with a STOP WARNING sign; they are meant to instill fear and trigger an immediate reaction – clicking on the “fatal” link. Common viruses that our team at CPS has come across include the Trojan virus, Win32worm, Adware-mywebserach, Rogue virus, Internet Security Pro 2013 and Security Shield to name only a few.

If you come across a link that looks suspicious, in an email or on the Internet avoid clicking on the link. Once the link is clicked your computer becomes susceptible to the virus and it is easily spread throughout your computer and contacts. The team at CPS can perform a virus removal if you do find your computer infected - no appointment necessary.

CPS removes viruses throughout Brighton, Howell, Pinckney, South Lyon, Fowlerville, Wixom and the entire surrounding Livingston County Area. If you have a virus, spyware or malware infestation it is not a problem for CPS. We are located in Brighton, MI to serve you.

Tips To Help Keep Your Laptop Running Efficiently

For some of us our computers are our life line.  We carry our computers from the café to our work place and even to catch some mid afternoon rays.  Laptops are a preferable choice for many as they are easy to transport.   Laptops are different then desktop computers and therefore have to be cared for in a particular manner.  Below you will find some tips on taking care of your laptop.

One of the leading causes of damage to desktops and laptops is lack of airflow.  When using a laptop it is crucial to have it setting on a hard surface.  Avoid using your laptop on a bed or pillow as the soft fabric can block the vents and cause the system to overheat.  It is important that you ensure the vents are clear of dirt and dust.  Use a can of compressed air to clean the vents out frequently to allow for adequate air flow.  Many computer repair shops offer a complete computer tune up for a relatively low fee.

Purchase an LCD and keyboard protector.  These inexpensive items can guard your laptop against scratches and damages.  The screen will be protected from scratches and the keyboard from crumbs and spills.

Laptops are more susceptible to damage from food and drinks.  If at all possible do not eat or drink while using your laptop.

Keep your laptop surfaces clean.  Wipe the outer part of the laptop free of dirt and dust.  The accumulation of dust will prevent your laptop from running properly.  Purchase fabrics designed to clean laptops and electronic devices.

Keeping the fan on your computer in working order is crucial whether it is a laptop or desktop.  To avoid overheating the fan must be in working order at all times.  If the laptop overheats it can cause issues with the computer’s memory and hard drive.  Look online for information on your particular laptop to see how to visually check the fan.  If you are not at all computer savvy a local computer repair shop will be able to look at your computer for you for a minor fee.

Your laptop should always be stored correctly.  Always turn your machine off and put it in a laptop bag when not in use.  Laptops should be stored away from children and pets; anything that has potential to chew on or damage your laptop should be kept away from stored laptops.

The tips above are just a few of the suggestions to help you keep your laptop running efficiently.  It is not difficult to maintain your laptop properly and keep it running in tip top shape with just a little bit of extra care.  Follow the tips above; if you notice your machine is not running properly shut it down and take it into your local computer repair shop for diagnosis.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repair as well as a variety of commercial computer services to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas.  You can find out more about the services offered by CPS at http://www.cpsmi.com.

A Deeper Look Into How Computer Viruses Affect Us

Through the course of working with technology and using the internet most of us have had an encounter with a computer virus.  Most systems use anti-virus software, a program that can help to eliminate common computer viruses from invading your computer system as well as prevent common symptoms that occur when a virus is attacking your computer.   Often times when a computer is infected it is because a new virus has been created to override the anti-virus prevention allowing the virus to infiltrate your computer system and network.

Computer viruses can attack your system in several different ways.  One way to get a virus is to download it from an email.  A virus can disguise itself in a funny image attachment, a greeting card or an audio video file.  Don’t open any type of email that looks suspicious even if the email is from somewhere or someone you are familiar with.  If you are unsure just don’t open it as it may just be a computer virus sent from an infected network that their computer is connected to.  This is true of instant messaging programs as well.  When opening outside materials use caution.

Another way a virus can attack your computer is through downloads off of the internet.  Coupon bars, illicit software or files and programs that you have downloaded can all potentially contain a virus.  When downloading anything off of the internet know the source from which the download is coming from.  If you need to download software or a program to run something on the system go directly to the site to start the download.  Many pop ups with downloads for the software will pop up all over your computer.  It will be impossible for you to tell whether one is infected or not before it is too late and your system has become infected.  The best way to avoid this is to go straight to the site to access the download.

Removable media may also become infected if the media is used on a computer that is infected.  Use precautions when using the same media disk between public computers and your private system.

In order to minimize the risk of infecting your computer it is important that you take precautions when opening emails, downloading software and using removable media.  It is also crucial that you update the anti-virus protection on your computer system regularly to keep newer viruses from being able to creep in and infect your system.  If at any time you find your computer is acting differently turn the machine off and take it in to a local computer repair shop for a virus removal and tune up.  Turning the machine off immediately helps to prevent the virus from spreading throughout your machine.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repair as well as a variety of commercial computer services to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas.  You can find out more about the services offered by CPS athttp://www.cpsmi.com.

Computers That Know How You Feel Will Soon Be Everywhere

SOMETIME NEXT SUMMER, you’ll be able to watch a horror series that is exactly as scary as you want it to be—no more, no less. You’ll pull up the show, which relies on software from the artificial intelligence startup Affectiva, and tap a button to opt in. Then, while you stare at your iPad, its camera will stare at you.

The software will read your emotional reactions to the show in real time. Should your mouth turn down a second too long or your eyes squeeze shut in fright, the plot will speed along. But if they grow large and hold your interest, the program will draw out the suspense. “Yes, the killing is going to happen, but whether you want to be kept in the tension depends on you,” says Julian McCrea, founder of the London-based studio Portal Entertainment, which has a development deal with a large unidentified entertainment network to produce the series. He calls Affectiva’s face-reading software, Affdex, “an incredible piece of technology.”

McCrea is one of the first outside developers to experiment with Affectiva’s developer tools to make technology capable of interpreting feelings based on tracking your facial expression. Scientists Roz Picard and Rana el Kaliouby spun the Waltham, Massachusetts-based tech startup out of MIT Media Lab in 2009. Picard has since left the company, but El Kaliouby, 36, remains the chief science officer and is committed to a bigger vision: “Personally, I’m not going to stop until this tech is embedded in all of our lives.” Already, CBS has used it to determine how new shows might go down with viewers. And during the 2012 Presidential election, Kaliouby’s team experimented with using it to track a sample of voters during a debate.

With $20 million in venture funding, the company has so far worked closely with a few partners to test its commercial applications. Now it plans to open its tools to everyone. Starting today, Affectiva will invite developers to experiment with a 45-day free test and then license its tools. You remember Intel inside? El Kaliouby envisions “Affectiva-embedded” technology, saying, “It’ll sit on your phone, in your car, in your fridge. It will sense your emotions and adapt seamlessly without being in your face.” It will just notice everything that’s happening on your face. She’ll expand on her strategy May 19 at the LDV Vision Summit, a coming together of some of the smartest companies cracking the problem of machine vision, in New York.

Millions of Faces

El Kaliouby has a PhD in computer science from Cambridge University, completed a post-doc at MIT Media Lab, and built Affectiva’s core technology as part of her academic work, intending to use it to help children with autism. “As I was doing that we started getting a lot of interest from industry,” says el Kaliouby. “The autism research was limited in scope,” she explained, so she turned to the business world to have a greater impact.

Affdex, the company’s signature software, builds detailed models of the face, taking into account the crinkle of the skin around the eye when you smile or the dip in the corner of your bottom lip when you frown. Since el Kaliouby started working on the Affectiva algorithms, the software has logged 11 billion of these data points, taken from 2.8 million faces in 75 countries.

With its massive data set, el Kaliouby believes Affectiva has developed an accurate read on human emotions. The software can, in effect, decode feelings. Consider Affectiva’s take on tracking empathy: “An example would be the inner eyebrow rise,” says el Kaliouby. “Like when you see a cute puppy and you’re, like, awww!” It can even note when you are paying attention.

The software relies on a so-called Facial Action Coding System, a taxonomy of 46 human facial movements that can be combined in different arrays to identify and label emotions. When it was developed in the late 1970s, humans scored emotional states manually by watching the movement of facial muscles. It was time intensive. “It takes about five minutes to code one minute of video,” says el Kaliouby. “So we built algorithms that automate it.” The software had to be trained to recognize variety in expressions. My smirk, for example, might not look like your smirk. “It’s like training a kid to recognize what an apple is,” el Kaliouby says.

Smile!

Five years in, the technology has become robust enough to be reliably useful. Experience designer Steve McLean, for example, who runs the Wisconsin design firm Wild Blue Technologies, has used Affectiva to build a video display for Hershey to use in retail stores. If you smile at the screen, the display dispenses a free chocolate sample. Tech startup OoVoo, which competes with Skype, has integrated the software into its videochat to create a product called intelligent video that can read chatters’ emotions. “We’re looking at focus groups, online education, and political affinity,” says JP Nauseef, managing director of Myrian Capital, which invested in both Affectiva and OoVoo and sits on Affectiva’s board.

But for all of Affectiva’s potential, it will take more than creative developers to help its technology catch on more broadly. “The hidden discussion that hasn’t been brought up is trust,” says Charlene Li, CEO of the research outfit Altimeter Group, who has followed Affectiva closely since 2011. “I love the product, but I’m also terrified by it,” she says. She points out that should this data fall into the wrong hands, it could be dangerous for consumers. What happens, for example, if you are often sad while using a piece of Affectiva-embedded software and the software’s developer chooses to sell that information to a pharmaceutical company?

It’s a concern that el Kaliouby takes very seriously. “We actually don’t store any personal information about the consumers, so we do not have any way of tying back the facial video to an individual,” she says. “We have 2.78 million face videos in the platform, and if your face was in there, none of our team would be able to pull it out for you.”

That may be so, but as the company makes its tools available to a broader set of developers, it will have to monitor how the software is rolled out to prevent them from abusing it—and to make sure that as users interact with it for the first time, they’re aware of it and feel they are in control of the experience.

The technology may be very good at reading your emotions. But humans will have to take care how to act on them.

Original Source: http://www.wired.com/2015/04/computers-can-now-tell-feel-face/