Internet security is currently as hot, if not THE hottest topic in technology today. Between the Wikileaks fiasco, congressional hearings with Facebook, and everything in between, web security is tip of the tongue in the tech community (and poised to emerge as the next big thing in service-oriented web commerce in my opinion, just watch.)

Cyber-crime is something that ignores age, gender, geography and any other distinguishing factor of the web user. Security situations like: identity theft, email hacking and the like, usually occur as a result of the individual’s habits, and an unawareness of risk.

As entrepreneurs, we are lucky enough to be free from the feudal-like “ball and chain” of cubicles and office hours. We’re free to work wherever we like, whenever we like.  And now, with the increased availability of high speed Wi-fi everywhere (kudos to you Starbucks) it’s now easier than ever to set up shop for the day just about anywhere.

AVG, who provides free Anti-virus software (similar to Norton), has an incredible research team that looks into fascinating geographic patterns of cyber-crime, as well as providing tips and tools to help keep your personal web security ahead of the curve…Or at least in step with it!

Here’s a couple of quick tips to keep yourself protected:

1. Remove sensitive data if possible and back it up before you leave for travel.
2. When using another computer make sure you disengage the option to “remember your passwords” or to “keep me logged in”
3. Be sure to NEVER store any passwords or login details when using public machines. Never.
4. Clear the cookies after being connected to a public network. And a general rule, once a week.
5. If you’re not using a Mac (which you should be sure to keep your anti-virus (Norton, AVG et. al) software up to date. Also PC check the Windows Update site for critical updates. (IMPORTANT)
6. If you are using a DSL or cable internet connection, be sure and install a firewall. ZoneAlarm is good – and free!

All the best,

Jay Kubassek

1.   KeywordSpyPro.com- This tool will kick out the top competitors winning on this keyword. This will often be decidedly different from SpyFu. Great analytics (budget, clicks etc.) Pay special attention to the ROI index 1-100 (70+ is acceptable). Also take note of the comparative information for PPC competitors vs. Organic competitors and overlapping keywords for your target demographic.

2.   Spyfoo.com- This tool will list the top 20 advertisers for any specific keyword. Both Paid and Organic. It will also kick out great data on the daily budgets of these advertisers, the amount of Clicks they receive as well specific people’s NAMES that are being used as a keyword.

3. Google.com- Good ole’ Google. Up to the minute information based on actual Google search queries. Doesn’t get much better than this if you know what to look for. The new left-bar tabs allow you specify the time frame of your search query, which can be very helpful to evaluate certain spikes in keyword interest, results etc.

4. Alexa- This a great ranking system that ranks every single URL in the entire world (Google being #1 of course). All based upon traffic only. Visitors per month, location, demographics, time on page, bounce rate etc. This is very helpful for SEO and Organic marketing strategies.

5.  Keyword Tool External (Google)- This information is based directly on actual Google Search Queries. Good stuff.

Hope this is helpful. If there is something you would like to hear a helpful tip or two about on my page Please feel free to Leave a Comment. I encourage it. I do my best to read them all, and do appreciate your feedback.

Also if you feel the information may be helpful to someone you know, please send it along.

All my best,

Jay Kubassek