Google has revealed its Gemini AI platform has helped the company filter out almost all malicious ads submitted to the Google Ads network in 2025.

In a new blog post, Google said its Gemini-powered tools “dramatically improved” its ability to detect and stop bad ads, catching more than 99% of policy-violating ads before they were ever served. “We’re continuing to evolve our defenses to stay ahead of even the most advanced schemes,” Google said.

• Google says Gemini blocked 99% of malicious ads in 2025
• AI tools removed 8.3 billion ads, suspended 24.9 million accounts, including millions tied to scams
• Gemini analyzes billions of signals to preemptively stop deceptive GenAI‑crafted ads

Being arguably the biggest advertising network on the planet, Google Ads is under a constant barrage of attacks: crooks steal other people’s accounts, or create new ones, then use Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) to create convincing ads that just spoof other, known businesses.

These ads are then shown on the network, and different techniques are used to trick users into thinking they are visiting legitimate websites.

Now, Google says it is fighting fire with fire.

“This proactive approach helped us defend against bad actors. In 2025, we blocked or removed over 8.3 billion ads and suspended 24.9 million accounts, including 602 million ads and 4 million accounts associated with scams,” the company said.

Google Gemini now analyzes “billions of signals”, including account age, behavioral cues, and campaign patterns, to identify potential threats.

The company says these models are better at understanding intent, helping spot malicious content and preemptively block it, “even when it’s designed to evade detection”.

“Bad actors are using generative AI to create deceptive ads at scale, and Gemini helps us detect and block them in real time. By the end of last year, the majority of Responsive Search Ads created in Google Ads were reviewed instantly, and harmful content was blocked at submission — a capability we plan to bring to more ad formats this year.”

Google also stressed that its advertiser verification program provides an additional prevention layer.

Article Source: Tech Radar

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If search engines are explorers, your website is a city, and an XML sitemap is the map that helps them navigate it efficiently. While modern search engines are good at discovering content on their own, a well-structured XML sitemap ensures nothing important gets missed.

Let’s break down what XML sitemaps are, why they matter, and how to use them effectively.

What Is an XML Sitemap?

An XML sitemap is a file that lists the important URLs on your website in a structured format. It tells search engines:

• Which pages exist
• When they were last updated
• How important they are relative to other pages
• How often they change

Think of it as a direct line of communication between your website and search engines.

Why XML Sitemaps Matter for SEO

1. Improved Crawl Efficiency

Search engines have a limited “crawl budget” for your site. A sitemap helps them prioritize key pages, ensuring your most important content gets indexed faster.

2. Better Indexation

If your site has pages that aren’t well linked internally (or are new), a sitemap helps search engines discover them.

3. Support for Large or Complex Sites

E-commerce sites, news platforms, and large blogs benefit significantly. Sitemaps help organize thousands, or even millions, of URLs.

4. Helps with New Content Visibility

Submitting updated sitemaps signals to search engines that new or updated content is available.

Key Elements of an XML Sitemap

A typical sitemap includes:

• <loc>: The page URL
• <lastmod>: Last modification date
• <changefreq>: How often the page changes
• <priority>: Relative importance of the page

Not all of these are strictly required, but they can provide useful hints.

Best Practices for XML Sitemaps

Keep It Clean

Only include high-quality, indexable pages. Avoid:

• Duplicate pages
• Redirects
• Broken links
• “Noindex” pages

Stay Within Limits

• Maximum 50,000 URLs per sitemap
• File size limit: 50MB (uncompressed)

For larger sites, use multiple sitemaps and a sitemap index file.

Use Canonical URLs

Make sure every URL in your sitemap matches its canonical version.

Update Regularly

Your sitemap should reflect your site’s current structure. Automating updates is ideal.

Include Only Relevant Pages

Don’t include every single URL, focus on pages that provide value and should rank.

Submitting Your Sitemap

Once created, submit your sitemap to search engines via their webmaster tools. This ensures they know where to find it and can process it efficiently.

You can also add the sitemap location in your robots.txt file:

Sitemap: https://www.yoursite.com/sitemap.xml

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Including non-indexable pages
• Forgetting to update the sitemap
• Using incorrect URLs (HTTP vs HTTPS, www vs non-www)
• Overloading with low-value pages
• Ignoring errors reported in webmaster tools

Do You Always Need an XML Sitemap?

Not always. If your website is small, well-structured, and internally linked, search engines can usually crawl it effectively.

However, you should use a sitemap if:

• Your site is large
• You frequently add or update content
• You have orphan pages (not internally linked)
• Your site has complex navigation

Final Thoughts

An XML sitemap isn’t a magic ranking booster, but it’s a foundational SEO tool. It ensures search engines can efficiently discover and understand your content, which is essential for visibility.

When combined with strong internal linking and high-quality content, a properly managed sitemap becomes a powerful part of your SEO strategy.

The post A Practical Guide to XML Sitemaps appeared first on Direct Submit.net.

If you own a small business, you have probably heard about Search Engine Optimisation (SEO). It’s a powerful way to get your website noticed online. But have you heard of local SEO? This specific SEO strategy is designed to help you attract customers in your immediate area. For small businesses aiming to connect with their local community, understanding how to use local SEO is not just beneficial, it’s essential for growth. This guide will walk you through the basics of mastering it.

A solid local SEO strategy is vital for increasing your online visibility and attracting potential customers who are searching nearby. When people use Google Search for services or products in their area, you want your business to appear right at the top of the search results.

Getting this right involves managing your business information, such as your business name and phone number, across your Google Business Profile and other platforms. It also includes gathering positive customer reviews to build trust. For local businesses, this is how you turn online searches into real-world customers. Now, let’s explore what local SEO is and why it’s so important.

What is Local SEO?

Local SEO is a specialised form of Search Engine Optimisation that focuses on improving your visibility in local search results. When someone in your local area searches on Google for a product or service you offer, local SEO helps your business appear prominently, often in the “Local Pack” or “Map Pack” at the top of the page. This is the box that shows a few businesses on Google Maps.

Think of it as making sure your business is on the map, both literally and digitally. It involves optimising your online presence to attract more customers from relevant local searches. This includes managing your listings on platforms like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Bing Places, ensuring customers can find you easily.

The goal is to make your business the top choice for people nearby. By optimising for local results, you ensure that when potential customers are looking for a business with a physical location like yours, the search engine shows them your details first.

Why Local SEO Matters for Small Businesses in the United Kingdom

For small businesses in the UK, local SEO is a game-changer. It directly connects you with local customers who are actively looking for your products or services. These nearby customers are often ready to make a purchase, making them a high-value target audience. A strong local SEO strategy ensures your business information is visible when and where it matters most.

By optimising for local search, you can significantly improve your local search rankings and stand out from competitors. It helps you build a strong online reputation and attract more foot traffic to your physical location or more enquiries within your service area.

Here’s how local SEO can help your business:

• Increased Visibility: Appear in Google Maps and local search engine results, making it easy for customers to find your opening hours and location.
• Attract More Customers: By targeting local keywords and creating local content like blog posts, you draw in a relevant audience.
• Build Trust: Accurate business listings and positive reviews from happy customers improve your credibility.

How Local SEO Differs from General SEO

While both fall under the umbrella of Search Engine Optimisation, local SEO and general SEO have different goals. General SEO aims to make your website visible to a national or global audience. In contrast, local SEO focuses on reaching customers within a specific geographical area, such as your town or city.

The techniques also vary. A general SEO strategy might focus on broad keyword research and building authority on a national scale. A local SEO strategy, however, prioritises appearing in the “Local Pack” on Google Search and involves creating location pages, managing local citations in directories, and optimising your Google Business Profile.

Here’s a simple breakdown of the differences in their SEO efforts:

Key Factors Google Uses to Rank Local Businesses

When deciding how to rank local businesses in search results, Google looks at a few key signals. The three main pillars are relevance, distance, and prominence. These factors help Google determine which businesses are the best match for a user’s search query.

Essentially, Google wants to show the most helpful and trustworthy results to its users. A well-optimised Google Business Profile, combined with consistent business listings across the web, plays a huge role in signalling your prominence and relevance. Let’s look at how these factors influence your local search rankings.

Relevance, Distance, and Prominence

Google’s local ranking algorithm is built on three core factors: relevance, distance, and prominence. Understanding these is the first step to creating an effective SEO strategy. They determine whether your business appears in the coveted “Local Pack” when a potential customer searches for your services.

Relevance is about how well your business matches what someone is searching for. Distance refers to how close your physical location is to the person searching or the location specified in their search. Prominence is a measure of how well-known your business is, based on information from across the web, like links, articles, and business directories.

Here’s a quick summary:

• Relevance: Does your Google Business profile clearly state that you offer the service the user wants?
• Distance: Is your business located near the searcher or within their specified service area?
• Prominence: How established is your business online through reviews, citations, and backlinks?

The Role of Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business) is one of the most powerful free SEO tools available for local businesses. It’s the information box that appears on Google Search and Google Maps, showing customers your business name, address, phone number, and opening hours.

Think of it as your digital storefront. A complete and optimised profile signals to Google that your business is active and credible. It provides essential business information that helps customers decide whether to visit or contact you. Keeping this information accurate and up-to-date is fundamental to your online presence.

Managing your profile effectively involves more than just listing your details. You should also upload photos, respond to online reviews, and use the Q&A feature. An active and well-maintained profile not only improves your visibility in your local area but also builds trust with potential customers.

Importance of Online Citations and Directories

Online citations are mentions of your business’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) on other websites. These are commonly found in online business directories like Yelp, Thomson Local, and even the modern-day Yellow Pages. Consistent and accurate local citations are a cornerstone of a strong local SEO strategy.

These local listings reinforce the validity of your business information to search engines. When a search engine finds consistent details about your business across many reputable directories, it trusts that your information is correct. This trust helps improve your online reputation and boosts your rankings in local search results.

Here’s why building citations is crucial for your online presence:

• Builds Trust: Consistency across multiple directories signals to Google that your business is legitimate.
• Improves Visibility: The more places your business is listed, the more likely customers are to find you.
• Strengthens Local Signals: Citations confirm your connection to your local area, which is vital for local SEO.

Essential Tools and Software for Managing Local SEO

Managing your local SEO strategy doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are many excellent SEO tools and software available to help you track your performance and streamline your efforts. These tools can help you monitor your local search rankings, manage listings in business directories, and analyse your online presence.

From free platforms like Google Search Console to specialised audit tools, the right software can provide valuable insights into what’s working and where you can improve. Using them effectively can make your local SEO efforts much more efficient. Let’s explore some of the tools that can help you succeed.

Local SEO Audit Tools for UK Businesses

Are there any simple tools or software that make managing local SEO easier? Absolutely. Local SEO audit tools are designed to analyse your online presence and identify areas for improvement. They scan your business information across the web, check for inconsistencies in your business listings, and compare your performance against competitors in your local area.

These SEO tools help you follow best practices by highlighting issues such as incorrect contact details or a lack of reviews. Many offer a mix of free and paid features, allowing you to get started without a significant investment. Using a free tool for an initial audit can give you a clear action plan.

Here are a few things these tools can help with:

• Checking Citation Consistency: Ensuring your name, address, and phone number are uniform across all directories.
• Analysing Google Business Profile: Identifying missing information or optimisation opportunities.
• Tracking Local Rankings: Seeing where you stand on Google Search for important local keywords.

Managing Your Google Business Profile

Optimising your Google Business Profile is one of the most effective things you can do for your local SEO. To manage it well, start by ensuring all your business information is complete and accurate. This includes your business name, address, phone number, and opening hours. Any inconsistency can confuse both customers and Google.

Beyond the basics, treat your profile like one of your social media profiles. Regularly post updates, share photos of your products or services, and answer questions from potential customers. An active profile shows that your business is open and engaged. This is how you can optimise your Google Business Profile for better local rankings.

Engaging with online reviews is another critical part of managing your profile. Responding promptly to both positive and negative feedback demonstrates excellent customer service and builds trust. A well-managed Google Business Profile is a dynamic tool for attracting and retaining local customers.

Tracking Local Rankings and Performance

Tracking your local search rankings is essential to understand if your SEO efforts are paying off. You need to know how your business appears in search engine results for your most important keywords, especially in the local “Map Pack”. Several SEO tools are available to help you monitor this performance.

Google Search Console is a fantastic free tool that provides insights into which search queries are bringing users to your site. You can use it to see your average position for different keywords and identify opportunities to improve. For more detailed local tracking, specialised rank-tracking software can show you exactly where you stand in specific postcodes.

Here’s what you should track:

• Keyword Rankings: Monitor your position for local keywords like “coffee shop in Durham.”
• Map Pack Visibility: Check if you appear in the top three local results for relevant searches.
• Website Traffic: Use analytics to see how many visitors are coming from local search and your business listings.

Getting Started with Local SEO: What You’ll Need

Getting started with local SEO is straightforward if you have the right information ready. To begin, you’ll need a clear and consistent set of your core business information. This includes your official business name, address, phone number, and website.

You will also need access to your Google Business Profile and other local directories where you want to create business listings. Having this information organised from the start will make the process much smoother and ensure consistency across all platforms. Let’s cover the essential components you’ll need to gather.

Setting Up Your Local SEO Website

Your website is the foundation of your online visibility, so it needs to be optimised for local search. This is one of the basic steps to get started with local SEO for a small business. Begin by conducting keyword research to find relevant keywords that include your service and location, such as “plumber in Newcastle.”

Once you have your local keywords, integrate them naturally into your website’s content. This includes your page title tags, headings, and body text. Creating dedicated location pages is also a powerful strategy if you serve multiple areas. These pages can be optimised specifically for each town or neighbourhood you cover.

Don’t forget to create local content through blog posts or landing pages. You could write about local events you’re sponsoring or projects you’ve completed in the area. These SEO efforts signal to search engines that your business is an active part of the local community, boosting your relevance.

Business Information and Core Data

Consistent business information is the backbone of successful local SEO. Before you start creating any business listings, you must establish a single, accurate set of core data for your business. This is another basic step to get started with local SEO for a small business and ensures a consistent online presence.

This core data, often called NAP (Name, Address, Phone number), must be identical everywhere it appears online, from your website to your Google Business Profile and beyond. Even small variations, like using “St.” instead of “Street,” can confuse search engines and harm your rankings.

Make sure you have the following details finalised:

• Official Business Name: Use the exact legal name.
• Physical Location: A correct, full address. If you’re a service-area business, define your service area clearly.
• Primary Phone Number: Use a local number if possible.
• Accurate Opening Hours: Keep these updated, especially for holidays.

Access to Local Directories and Citation Platforms

Once your core business information is finalised, the next step is to gain access to local directories and citation platforms. These are the websites where you will build your local listings. Start with the most important one: your Google Business Profile. Ensure you have ownership and full control over it.

Next, identify the most relevant business directories for your industry and local area. These can include well-known sites like Yelp and Thomson Local, as well as niche directories specific to your trade. Creating profiles on these platforms is essential for building local citations and improving your visibility in local search results.

Some SEO tools can help you manage these listings from a single dashboard, which saves time and ensures consistency. By systematically building out your presence on these platforms, you reinforce your connection to your local area, which helps you climb the rankings in the “Map Pack” and attract more customers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering Local SEO

Ready to put everything into action? This step-by-step guide will walk you through creating a powerful local SEO strategy. By following these steps, you can improve your local search rankings, manage customer reviews, and strengthen your overall online presence.

From optimising your Google Business Profile to creating targeted local content, each step is designed to build on the last. Following this process will help you create a comprehensive approach that drives real results for your business.

Step 1: Claim and Optimise Your Google Business Profile

The first and most crucial step is to claim and fully optimise your Google Business Profile. This free listing (formerly Google My Business) is your most valuable asset for local SEO. If you haven’t already, search for your business name on Google Maps to see if a profile exists. If it does, claim it. If not, create one from scratch.

To optimise your profile for better local rankings, you must fill out every section completely. Accurate business information is key. This means providing the correct business name, address, phone number, and website. Select the most relevant categories for your business to help the search engine understand what you do.

Here are some optimisation tips:

• Add High-Quality Photos: Showcase your premises, products, and team.
• Set Accurate Opening Hours: Keep them updated, especially for holidays.
• Encourage Online Reviews: Actively ask happy customers to leave feedback.

Step 2: Build Accurate Local Citations and Directory Listings

After optimising your Google profile, the next step is to build accurate local citations across the web. The importance of online citations and directories for local SEO cannot be overstated. Start by creating business listings in major directories like Yelp, Thomson Local, and other platforms relevant to your industry.

The key to this step is consistency. Ensure that your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are identical in every single listing. Any inconsistencies can confuse search engines and dilute the strength of your online reputation. This meticulous approach helps solidify your presence in your local area.

Building a strong network of citations across reputable business directories signals to Google that your business is legitimate and established. This, in turn, helps improve your visibility in local search results and increases your chances of appearing in the “Map Pack” for your service area.

Step 3: Optimise Website Content for Local Keywords

To help your business appear in Google search results, you need to optimise your website with local keywords. This involves conducting keyword research to find the terms potential customers in your area are using. These are often combinations of a service and a location, like “emergency plumber in Durham.”

Once you have a list of relevant keywords, integrate them into your website’s content. This is a key part of any successful SEO strategy. Your goal is to naturally weave these terms into your landing pages, blog posts, and service descriptions to strengthen your online presence for local searches.

Focus on these areas for optimisation:

• Title Tags and Meta Descriptions: Include your primary local keyword in the title tag of your homepage and relevant service pages.
• Location Pages: Create dedicated pages for each physical location or major service area.
• Blog Content: Write blog posts about local topics, events, or case studies.

Step 4: Encourage and Manage Customer Reviews

Customer reviews have a significant influence on local SEO rankings. A steady stream of positive reviews on your Google Business Profile signals to Google that your business is trustworthy and provides a great experience. Good reviews not only boost your ranking but also build social proof that encourages new customers to choose you.

Make it easy for happy customers to leave online reviews. You can send a follow-up email with a direct link to your review page or mention it at the end of a transaction. The more good reviews you have, the stronger your online reputation becomes. This is a direct answer to the question: do customer reviews influence local SEO rankings on Google? Yes, they do.

It’s equally important to manage all reviews, including negative reviews. Respond professionally and promptly to any criticism. This shows that you value customer feedback and are committed to resolving issues. How you handle feedback publicly can turn a negative experience into a demonstration of excellent customer service.

Step 5: Create Localised Content and Landing Pages

This is one of the final basic steps to get started with local SEO. Creating local content is a powerful way to connect with your community and signal your local relevance to search engines. This content can take many forms, from blog posts about local events to detailed landing pages for specific neighbourhoods you serve.

Your local SEO strategy should include a plan for generating fresh, relevant content regularly. This keeps your website dynamic and gives search engines more reasons to rank you for local search queries. For example, a roofer could write a blog post about preparing for winter weather in the North East.

Here are some ideas for localised content:

• Location Pages: Create unique pages for each service area with testimonials and project examples from that area.
• Blog Posts: Write about community news, local events you sponsor, or partnerships with other local businesses.
• Case Studies: Showcase successful projects you’ve completed in your local area.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Local SEO

As you implement your local SEO strategy, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can hinder your progress. Issues like inconsistent business information across different business listings or neglecting customer reviews can significantly impact your online presence and rankings.

Another frequent oversight is failing to ensure your website is optimised for mobile devices, where most local searches happen. Being aware of these pitfalls is the first step to avoiding them. Let’s look at some of the most common errors so you can steer clear of them.

Inaccurate Business Listings

One of the most damaging common mistakes to avoid with local SEO is having inaccurate business listings. Inconsistent business information across different online directories sends confusing signals to search engines and customers. If your business name, address, or phone number differs from one platform to another, it erodes trust.

This problem often arises when a business moves, changes its phone number, or rebrands without updating all its existing listings. Old, incorrect information can linger on sites like the Yellow Pages or smaller local directories, harming your online presence. This confusion can cause you to drop out of the “Map Pack.”

To avoid this, conduct regular audits of your business listings. Make sure your core business information is uniform everywhere it appears online. A consistent digital footprint is fundamental to a strong local SEO performance and ensures customers can always find and contact you without issue.

Neglecting Customer Reviews

Another critical mistake is neglecting customer reviews. Your online reputation is heavily influenced by what customers say about you, and Google pays close attention. Do customer reviews influence local SEO rankings on Google? Yes, a lack of reviews or a failure to manage them can seriously harm your visibility.

Ignoring feedback, whether you receive good reviews or negative reviews, gives the impression that you don’t care about your customers. Happy customers are your best advocates, and not encouraging them to share their experiences is a missed opportunity. On the other hand, leaving negative feedback unaddressed can deter potential clients.

To avoid this:

• Actively Request Reviews: Ask satisfied customers to leave feedback on your Google Business Profile.
• Respond to All Reviews: Thank customers for positive comments and address concerns in negative ones.
• Monitor Your Reputation: Regularly check your reviews across different platforms.

Overlooking Mobile Optimisation

Forgetting about mobile optimisation is a major mistake in today’s digital landscape. The vast majority of local searches happen on mobile devices, with users often looking for directions or contact information while on the go. If your website is not easy to use on a smartphone, you are creating a poor user experience and losing potential customers.

A non-mobile-friendly site can frustrate users, causing them to leave and choose a competitor instead. This high bounce rate signals to Google that your site isn’t helpful, which can harm your search engine results. Your entire online presence, from your website to your business listings on Google Maps, must be accessible on mobile.

An effective local SEO strategy must prioritise mobile. Ensure your website has a responsive design that adapts to all screen sizes, loads quickly, and makes it easy for users to find what they need. This is essential for maintaining strong local search rankings and converting mobile visitors into customers.

Mastering Local SEO

Mastering local SEO is essential for UK businesses aiming to connect with their community and enhance their online visibility. By focusing on strategies such as optimising your Google Business Profile, managing customer reviews, and creating localised content, you can significantly improve your chances of ranking higher in local search results.

Remember, the journey to effective local SEO requires patience and consistency, but the rewards in increased foot traffic and customer engagement are well worth the effort. If you’re ready to take your local SEO strategy to the next level, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation and let our experts guide you through the process!

The post Local SEO and its Importance for Business appeared first on Direct Submit.net.

The computer is no longer just an accessory, it is the backbone of every small business operation. From managing finances and inventory to marketing and customer communication, computers streamline processes that once consumed countless hours. By automating routine tasks, small businesses can allocate more time and resources to strategic growth initiatives. Moreover, computers enable access to powerful software tools that provide valuable insights through data analysis, helping entrepreneurs make informed decisions with confidence.

Embracing computer technology not only enhances efficiency but also opens doors to new opportunities in an increasingly digital marketplace. For any small business aiming to thrive and compete effectively, investing in reliable computer systems is not just beneficial, it’s essential.

Understanding the Importance of Computers in Small Business Operations

Embracing small business technology is no longer optional, it’s essential. Computers have become the backbone of modern small business operations, enabling owners to streamline tasks, manage data efficiently, and connect with customers like never before. The strategic use of computer technology in business empowers entrepreneurs to automate routine processes, reduce errors, and free up valuable time to focus on growth and innovation.

Digital tools for small businesses, from inventory management software to customer relationship platforms, rely heavily on robust computer systems. These technologies not only enhance accuracy but also provide real-time insights that drive smarter decision-making. By integrating computers into daily operations, small businesses can significantly boost their productivity and competitiveness in an increasingly digital economy.

Ultimately, investing in computer use in business translates directly into improved efficiency through technology. It equips small business owners with the capabilities they need to adapt swiftly to market changes and deliver superior service. Ignoring this critical resource means risking falling behind, while those who harness it position themselves for sustained success.

Enhancing Productivity: How Computers Streamline Daily Tasks

Enhancing productivity in today’s fast-paced world is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. Business software solutions have revolutionized the way companies operate by streamlining daily tasks and freeing up valuable time for strategic initiatives. Through task automation, repetitive and time-consuming activities are handled swiftly and accurately, allowing employees to focus on higher-value work that drives growth.

Inventory management systems, for example, eliminate manual tracking errors and provide real-time insights into stock levels, ensuring businesses never miss an opportunity or face unexpected shortages. Meanwhile, accounting software for small businesses simplifies complex financial processes by automating invoicing, expense tracking, and tax calculations. This not only reduces human error but also accelerates reporting cycles.

By integrating these powerful tools into your operations, you can enhance efficiency dramatically, transforming mundane tasks into seamless workflows that propel your business forward. Embracing computer-driven solutions isn’t just smart; it’s essential for staying competitive in the modern marketplace.

Improving Communication and Collaboration with Computer Technology

Improving communication and collaboration is essential for success, and computer technology plays a pivotal role in making this possible. Effective email management systems help professionals organize their inboxes, prioritize messages, and respond promptly, ensuring that important information never falls through the cracks. Meanwhile, video conferencing tools have revolutionized remote interactions by enabling face-to-face meetings regardless of geographical barriers, fostering stronger connections and clearer understanding among team members.

Collaboration platforms take this a step further by providing centralized spaces where teams can share documents, track project progress, and brainstorm ideas in real-time. These technologies not only streamline workflows but also empower employees to work together seamlessly from anywhere in the world. Embracing remote work technology is no longer optional, it’s a strategic advantage that enhances productivity and drives innovation. By integrating these tools into your daily operations, you create an environment where communication flows effortlessly and collaboration thrives.

Marketing and Customer Engagement Powered by Computers

Today, leveraging cutting-edge digital marketing tools is no longer optional, it’s essential for businesses aiming to stay ahead. Social media management software empowers brands to seamlessly schedule posts, analyze engagement metrics, and respond to customers in real time, ensuring a consistent and impactful presence across multiple platforms. Meanwhile, customer relationship management (CRM) systems revolutionize how companies understand and interact with their audience by centralizing customer data and enabling personalized communication strategies.

Together, these computer-powered solutions transform marketing efforts into dynamic, data-driven campaigns that not only attract new customers but also foster lasting loyalty. Embracing these technologies is the key to unlocking unparalleled levels of customer engagement and driving measurable business growth.

Data Management and Security: Protecting Your Small Business Information

Safeguarding your small business information is not just an option, it’s a necessity. Implementing robust data backup solutions ensures that your critical business data remains safe and recoverable in the event of hardware failures or cyberattacks. Coupled with comprehensive cybersecurity for small businesses, you create a strong defense against increasingly sophisticated threats. Leveraging reliable cloud storage options offers both flexibility and security, allowing you to access your data anytime while maintaining strict protection protocols.

Additionally, secure payment processing is essential to protect your customers’ sensitive financial information and build trust in your brand. Prioritizing these measures empowers your business to operate confidently, knowing that your valuable data is well-protected from potential risks.

Selecting the Right Computer Systems and Software for Your Small Business Needs

Selecting the right computer systems and software is a crucial step for any small business aiming to thrive in today’s competitive market. Investing in reliable small business computer hardware doesn’t just enhance daily operations, it lays the foundation for growth and efficiency. Affordable business computers are now more accessible than ever, offering powerful performance without breaking the bank, making it easier for entrepreneurs to equip their teams with the tools they need.

Equally important is choosing essential software for entrepreneurs that streamlines tasks such as accounting, communication, and project management. The right combination of hardware and software not only boosts productivity but also ensures your business runs smoothly and securely. By carefully selecting these technologies tailored to your specific needs, you position your small business for success from day one, making every dollar spent a smart investment in your company’s future.

Embracing Computer Technology to Propel Your Small Business Forward

Embracing computer technology is no longer optional for small businesses, it’s essential. By integrating the right tools and systems, you can streamline operations, enhance customer engagement, and unlock new growth opportunities. Technology empowers you to compete with larger companies by leveling the playing field and enabling smarter decision-making.

Don’t let hesitation hold your business back; investing in computer technology now will position your small business for long-term success and resilience. Take the leap today and watch your business thrive in an increasingly connected world.

The post The Role of the Computer in a Small Business appeared first on Direct Submit.net.

Cybercriminals using the so-called “spray and pray” tactic love to impersonate well-known brands. Especially ones with huge customer bases.

Amazon reportedly has around 310 million active customers, so they certainly qualify as a brand worth impersonating. And it shows in the sheer volume of scams that use its name.

The hook in a recent email campaign is the same: something you bought does not meet safety or quality standards.

Amazon account take-over (ATO) scams were numerous during the holiday season, and they haven’t gone away. The scammers have ported the “product recall due to safety concerns” text message scam over to email.

The fake product recall message is one of scammers’ most popular lures, and we’ve reported on in the past.

The UK’s Mirror reported on emails that read:

“Dear Customer, we are writing to inform you of a product recall affecting an item from your March 2026 order due to a design defect that may pose a potential safety risk. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your prompt attention to this important safety matter. Thank you for your continued trust in Amazon.”

Following the link takes the target to a fake login page designed to steal their Amazon username and password.

These messages are intentionally vague about the nature of the product or the exact issue they’re being recalled for. The less specific they are, the more likely it is that someone will think, “This could be me.” If you’ve recently ordered something from Amazon, you’re more likely to fall for it.

How to avoid falling for Amazon phishing scams

• If you get a recall notice, don’t click any links. Instead, go straight to Amazon using the app or by typing the website into your browser. Then check the Message Centre in your account. Legitimate messages from Amazon will appear there.
• If you’ve fallen for this, change your Amazon password straight away and anywhere else you use that password. Monitor your bank statements for any unfamiliar charges, and contact your bank immediately if you see anything suspicious.
• While you’re in your Amazon account settings, turn on two-step verification.
• Report the scam to Amazon itself, whether you’ve fallen for it or not.
• In the US, forward scam texts to 7726 (SPAM) or use the “Report Junk” option. For emails, report them as spam in your inbox.
• Install web protection that can warn you of phishing sites, card skimmers, and other nasties that could lead to your data being taken.

Scammers sometimes use information they’ve found online to personalize their scam messages. Check what information is already out there about you using the free malwarebytes Digital Footprint scanner and then remove or change as much of it as you are able.

Source: Malwarebytes

The post Scammers Pose as Amazon Support to Steal your Account appeared first on Direct Submit.net.

Amazon has told owners it will soon stop supporting older Kindle models – a move which has left some users outraged. In emails from the tech giant, affected users were thanked for being a “longtime Kindle customer” but told devices released during or before 2012 would no longer receive updates from 20 May.

The move will mean owners of older Kindles, including its earliest models such as the Kindle Touch and some Kindle Fire tablets, will be unable to download new e-books.

Amazon said it has supported affected models for years and their active users have been offered discounts to help “transition to newer devices”, but some have criticised it for making up to two million devices “obsolete”.

“I have a Kindle Touch that I’ve had since 2013, it works great, I bought a book on it a few months ago, and suddenly it’s obsolete,” one X user wrote in a post, external tagging Amazon.

In a statement, an Amazon spokesperson said: “Starting May 20, 2026, customers using Kindle and Kindle Fire devices released in 2012 and earlier will no longer be able to purchase, borrow, or download new content via the Kindle Store.

“These models have been supported for at least 14 years—some as long as 18 years—but technology has come a long way in that time, and these devices will no longer be supported moving forward.”

It says the affected Kindle models are:

Kindle: Kindle 1st Generation (2007), Kindle DX and DX Graphite (2009 and 2010), Kindle Keyboard (2010), Kindle 4 (2011), Kindle Touch (2011), Kindle 5 (2012), and Kindle Paperwhite 1st Generation (2012)

Kindle Fire Tablets: Kindle Fire 1st Gen (2011), Kindle Fire 2nd Gen (2012), Kindle Fire HD 7 (2012), Kindle Fire HD 8.9 (2012)

Users will still be able to read e-books they have already downloaded, and their accounts and their Kindle Library will remain accessible on its mobile and desktop app. Amazon also warned performing a factory reset on affected Kindles will make them unusable.

Kay Aaronricks, 46, told the BBC she was surprised by Amazon’s announcement – and by the sadness that came with the thought of potentially losing full use of her 14-year-old Kindle.

“It does show how much of a part that Kindle plays in my life,” she said, adding it had allowed her to “take all of my books with me” when working and travelling. “I love paper books like anyone does, but the Kindle is more practical,” Kay added.

Kay said she was concerned she might be “forced to give up a device that works perfectly” with Amazon’s changes

Kay said she was also concerned about the presence of adverts on some newer, discounted Kindle devices, and how these might alter the reading experience. “It’s about taking yourself away from reality and disconnecting from advertising, marketing, social media, all those other things that we’re surrounded with in life,” she said.

Tech industry analyst Paolo Pescatore said while Amazon’s move may frustrate owners of models which still work, the decision was “understandable from a security and support perspective”.

“The challenge is that these devices were built for a different era and are not equipped to run newer, more data-hungry services and features,” he told the BBC, adding “ageing hardware” can also pose problems.

But Pescatore said older devices losing the ability to connect to newer products and services can also “turn a once seamless device into a far more limited offline tool”.

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Grand Theft Auto developer Rockstar Games has been targeted for a second time in three years by hackers. The data breach affecting the gaming giant was reported by cybersecurity news outlets on Saturday, after a group of hackers claimed responsibility for the hack.

In posts viewed by outlets, the criminals said they gained access to Rockstar servers managed by a third-party cloud provider and would publish stolen material online unless paid a ransom.

But Rockstar, confirming the hack to gaming publication Kotaku, downplayed the breach – saying “this has no impact on our organisation or our players”.

“We can confirm that a limited amount of non-material company information was accessed in connection with a third-party data breach,” a Rockstar spokesperson told the outlet, external.

The BBC has approached Rockstar for comment, and has spoken to the hackers responsible for this latest breach, who called themselves ShinyHunters.

They are a prolific group of English-speaking cybercriminals, thought to be in their teens, who specialise in data theft and extortion.

They previously claimed to be behind a hack targeting gig ticket operator Ticketmaster.

In the last two years the criminals have repeatedly broken into cloud storage systems used by major corporations and claim to have done the same with Rockstar Games.

ShinyHunters said the stolen data would be published online as their demands had not been met.

Law enforcement advice around the world is not to pay cybercriminal ransoms as it fuels the industry and there is no guarantee hackers will actually delete stolen data.

The incident marks the second time the blockbuster game developer has been hacked.

In 2023 an 18-year-old British hacker called Arion Kurtaj was given an indefinite hospital order after hacking into the company and stealing data, source code and video clips of the unfinished GTA 6 game.

The damaging hack saw 90 video clips of incomplete gameplay for Rockstar’s highly-anticipated new game published in online forums – prompting the firm to release its trailer for the game ahead of schedule.

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When someone types “local drycleaner near me” into Google, it uses their location plus local SEO signals to decide which businesses to show. The most visible result is usually the map box with three businesses (the “Local Pack”), and most clicks go there.

For a Newcastle or North East dry cleaner, that means you must send Google very clear signals about:

• Where you are (Newcastle, Gateshead, North Tyneside, Durham, etc.)
• What you do (dry cleaning, alterations, ironing, laundry service, etc.)
• How trusted you are (reviews, consistent listings, local links).

Think of it as “proving you’re the best nearby answer” rather than stuffing the words “near me” everywhere.

Optimise your Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is usually the biggest factor in whether you appear in “near me” results.

For a Newcastle dry cleaner:

1. Claim and verify your listing
   • Search your business name on Google and claim the profile, or create one if it doesn’t exist.
   • Use your real business name (for example, “Jesmond Dry Cleaners”) rather than keyword‑stuffed names.
2. Fill in every detail
   • Use your full Newcastle or North East address and a local landline/mobile, not a national number.
   • Add accurate opening hours and keep them updated, including bank holidays and seasonal changes.
   • Choose the most accurate primary category (e.g. “Dry cleaner”) and add secondary ones (e.g. “Laundry service”, “Clothing alteration service”) if relevant.
3. Write a strong description
   • Use up the available characters to say who you help and where:
     “Family‑run dry cleaner in Newcastle serving Jesmond, Gosforth and Heaton, offering same‑day dry cleaning, shirt pressing and alterations.”
   • Include local words naturally: “Newcastle city centre”, “Gateshead”, “North East”.
4. Add photos and posts
   • Upload photos of your shopfront, inside of the shop, staff, and machines so it looks real and local.
   • Post updates about offers (“Half‑price suit cleaning in January”), new services (wedding dress cleaning), and local events you support.
5. Encourage and respond to reviews
   • Ask happy customers at the counter or via receipts to leave a Google review and make it easy with a short link or QR code.
   • Reply to every review, good or bad, in a friendly, professional tone; Google notices engagement and it helps build trust.

If you do nothing else, a complete and active GBP alone can move you much closer to the top of “near me” searches.

Make your website clearly local

Even for “near me” searches, Google also looks at your website to check relevance and quality.

For your local dry cleaner in Newcastle or the wider North East:

1. Get the basics right
   • Make sure your site works well on mobile, because most “near me” searches happen on phones.
   • Put your name, full address, and phone number (NAP) in the footer and on a clear Contact page.
2. Use location‑specific keywords naturally
   • On your home page and service pages, weave in phrases like:
     • “Dry cleaner in Newcastle city centre”
     • “Dry cleaning in Jesmond and Heaton”
     • “Same‑day dry cleaning Newcastle upon Tyne”
     • “Wedding dress cleaning in the North East”
   • Write for humans first, then check you’ve naturally mentioned the services and areas you want to attract.
3. Create local service and area pages
   • Instead of one generic “Services” page, create focused pages such as:
     • “Dry Cleaning in Newcastle Upon Tyne”
     • “Dry Cleaner in Jesmond”
     • “Suit and Shirt Cleaning for Newcastle Professionals”
   • Each page should mention nearby landmarks or streets (“near Eldon Square”, “minutes from Newcastle Central Station”) to strengthen local relevance.
4. Add local content
   • Publish occasional short blog posts or guides tied to the region, such as:
     • “How North East weather affects your winter coats”
     • “What to wear (and how to care for it) for a night on the Quayside”
   • This helps Google understand where you operate and builds local trust.
5. Use clear calls to action
   • Add prominent “Call now”, “Book collection”, or “Get a quote” buttons, especially on mobile.
   • Link your GBP phone number and website so users can move easily between them.

If someone in Newcastle searches “local drycleaner near me” and then clicks through to a site that clearly serves Newcastle neighbourhoods, you’re much more likely to stay high in results.

Build strong local signals around the web

Google also checks how consistently your business appears across the wider web. For a North East dry cleaner, this means:

1. Get listed in UK and local directories
   • Add or update your listing on platforms like Yell, Thomson Local, Bing Places, Apple Maps and Facebook.
   • Make sure your NAP details match exactly across all listings (same spelling, punctuation, and phone number).
2. Look for North East‑specific citations
   • Join local business directories such as the Newcastle Chamber of Commerce, local BID websites, or community business pages.
   • If you serve multiple towns (e.g. Newcastle, Gateshead, North Shields), look for directories or community sites in each area and list your business there.
3. Earn local links and mentions
   • Sponsor local events, sports teams, or charity drives and ask for a website mention with a link back to your site.
   • Offer quotes or tips on clothing care to local bloggers, news sites, or student publications (e.g. universities in Newcastle or Durham).
4. Keep social profiles consistent
   • Make sure your Facebook, Instagram, and other profiles all show the same business name, address, and phone number as your website and GBP.
   • Share local‑flavoured posts: photos of your shop, new equipment, staff milestones, or participation in North East events.

These consistent, local mentions help Google trust that you are a real, established dry cleaner in the Newcastle area, which boosts “near me” visibility.

Use reviews and customer experience to stand out

“Near me” results don’t just show who is closest; they also reflect who is most trusted and active.

For your Newcastle dry cleaner:

1. Make reviews part of your process
   • Train staff to ask for reviews after a good interaction: “If you were happy today, a quick Google review really helps local customers find us.”
   • Add the review link to email receipts, loyalty cards, and your website.
2. Aim for quality, quantity, and recency
   • A steady flow of 4–5 star reviews over time looks better to Google than a burst and then silence.
   • Encourage reviewers to mention services and area naturally (“Best dry cleaner in Jesmond”, “Great same‑day service in Newcastle”).
3. Reply to reviews promptly
   • Thank happy customers by name, mention their service (“Thanks for trusting us with your wedding dress cleaning”), and invite them back.
   • Handle negative reviews calmly, explain any changes you’ve made, and where appropriate invite the customer to contact you directly.
4. Back it up in real life
   • Fast turnaround, clear pricing, and friendly staff all increase the chance that people will recommend you and leave reviews, which feeds back into better “near me” visibility.

Over time, strong reviews can be the deciding factor when two dry cleaners in the same part of Newcastle compete for the same “near me” search.

Measure and improve

To keep improving, you need to track what’s working.

For a local dry cleaner:

• Check your GBP insights to see how many people found you via “discovery” searches like “dry cleaner near me” versus by name.
• Use Google Analytics and Search Console on your website to track organic traffic, local keywords (e.g. “dry cleaner Newcastle”), and which pages people land on.
• Watch key metrics: calls from your profile, direction requests in Google Maps, website clicks, and the number and rating of reviews.

If you see that most searches come from “Newcastle” but you want more from Gateshead, you can add or strengthen a Gateshead‑focused page and build more citations there.

The post Understand How “Near Me” Searches Work appeared first on Direct Submit.net.

The CEO of Oracle has outlined the latest stage in the company’s bid to build “the world’s largest AI cloud” for customers across the world.

Speaking at the company’s Oracle AI Tour World London 2026 event, Mike Sicilia spoke about the myriad of possibilities offered by AI tools, likening the current technological situation to that which saw propeller-powered airplanes supplanted by jet engines.

>>> Oracle CEO Mike Sicilia reveals host of new launches and announcements
>>> Oracle bidding to build “the world’s largest AI cloud”
>>> 22 new Fusion AI apps and new database AI tools among new offerings

“Expectations in the age of AI simply haven’t risen – they’ve reset entirely,” he noted, “things which felt out of touch just a few years ago, a few months ago, and in some cases, just a few weeks ago are now the new normal.”

In a packed keynote, Sicilia revealed a host of new product and service announcements from Oracle.

“AI changes how work gets done, so people can focus on strategy instead of administration,” he said, “AI doesn’t just make enterprises faster, it gives them the altitude to think bigger.”

“We’ve done the re-engineering for you, so these AI capabilities should be easy to turn on and make the most of (and) we hope that this will help you reach places you’ve never been before.”

“AI is not here to replace expertise – it’s here to elevate it by taking on the invisible complexity underneath ideas like analysis coordination and prediction.”

Among Oracle’s announcements were new agentic AI tools allowing businesses to build, deploy, and scale secure AI applications using real-time enterprise data, 22 new AI-driven Fusion Agentic Applications, and a new OCI platform to build, deploy and manage AI at scale – showing the scale of offerings from the company.

“With Oracle we’d like you to decide,” Sicilia concluded, “we’re not here to define your future with AI, we’re here to provide you with the tools that you need to shape it…we’ve got some ideas, but more importantly, we’ve got the tools to help you turn your own ideas into reality.”

Article Source: Tech Radar

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Popular student information system (SIS) Infinite Campus has confirmed a data breach, reportedly carried out by the notorious hacker group ShinyHunters, who are now attempting to extort the company.

According to a data breach notification shared with affected individuals and later posted on Reddit, an unauthorized actor accessed an employee’s Salesforce account on March 18, 2026. Infinite Campus says its IT and security teams quickly removed the intruder, but not before the attacker obtained names and contact information of school staff. The company emphasized that most of the stolen information is “commonly found on school websites,” and that customer data was not targeted or compromised.

What Happened

• Breached system: Salesforce account
• Data exposed: Names and contact details of school staff
• Customer impact: None; no sensitive customer information was taken
• Ransom demand: Added to ShinyHunters’ leak site with a March 25, 2026 deadline

The attackers have claimed to have taken Salesforce records containing personally identifiable information (PII) and other internal corporate data. They added Infinite Campus to their data leak site, demanding payment in Bitcoin or Monero or threatening to release the files online.

ShinyHunters’ Pattern

While Infinite Campus did not publicly name the group, it described the attackers as a “group known for targeting Salesforce accounts of hundreds of companies,” strongly indicating ShinyHunters. The group has previously targeted major organizations, including Cisco, Adidas, Qantas, and Allianz Life, using tactics such as:

• Voice phishing (vishing): Trick employees into granting access
• OAuth token theft: Exploit legitimate authentication to access CRM data

Once access is gained, the attackers exfiltrate sensitive CRM data and demand ransom, often through cryptocurrency. Infinite Campus stated that it will not engage with the attackers, and has temporarily disabled some customer-facing services for users without verified IP addresses.

This incident highlights the growing threat to cloud-based services like Salesforce, especially in sectors handling sensitive educational and organizational data.

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