This is a guest post by the blogger over at Techloaded.com who Tweets @Techloaded.  I met him at #BlogChat and he’s another techie so you ought to enjoy his writing!

Every year most of us look back at the previous year and whether or not we are pleased with the progress we’ve made over the year, we think of brand new goals and aspirations for the next year. Some of those goals might include getting more done, making more money or losing weight. In case your one of those people who has made a resolution in the past and failed to keep it or would like to make a resolution but knows you could never keep it all by yourself, we’ve got a few pointers and tips for you that will help you get your goals off to a successful start.

Get Organized

Get Rid of that Pesky Clutter

If you’re like me, you spend a lot of time creating documents and files. After time your desktop can get cluttered up. In order to clearly see what’s going on on your desktop, you should go through and delete unused unneeded files and resources. You’ll find yourself able to think clearer and focus on what’s important if you’re desktop and documents folders are clear of clutter and only contain the stuff that is important right now.

Backup, Backup, Backup

You’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a million times, backup! But if you’ve ever had a computer or hard drive die on you, you’ve learned that you absolutely have to do it. As there are tons of backup solutions out there, I’m not going to recommend any particular system. If you do some quick looking around, you’ll find that there are many ways to backup from external hard drives, to CDs to automatic off-site backups as well (onsite versus offsite backing up).

One Place for Passwords

There are a number of apps that are considerably useful for backing up and storing information. These apps come in tremendously useful when you’re trying to remember what that password. If you’re like me, if you need to use a website that you haven’t used in a while, you’ll probably have to go through the process of resetting your password. However, if you use an application like wallet, you can store your passwords in one secure place and get to them quickly when you need them. Just one, thing, don’t forget that master-password!

Get Focused

Even now as I’m typing this I have a little digital assistant working in the background. It’s kinda like big brother except it’s watching my activities to help me become more productive. Scary huh? Well, yes, in a way it is a little scary to me because I know at the end of the week I’m going to get a report telling me how much time I spent working, browsing the Web, Tweeting, or looking at Facebook.

RescueTime (free version available) constantly runs in the background and automatically starts up every time I boot up my computer. It also alerts me when I’ve spent too much time on “time wasting” activities during the day like Facebook. I can also use the “get focused” mode that RescueTime when there’s a project that I need to urgently get done. RescueTime makes it easy to keep goals such as spending less time on Facebook and other time wasters and spending more time getting stuff done.

Find Stuff Fast

Launch that App!

Once you’ve learned how to use the Mac OS Dock and the Windows Taskbar, you’ll realize that while they are excellent tools, they have their shortcomings. I use Quicksilver software which can launch any application within a few keystrokes. No matter how fast you are with a mouse, using keystrokes is faster.

Google is Your Friend (Get that Look off Your Face)

I’ve found myself using Google more and more. If I have an idea or wonder how to do something, I do a couple Google searches. There’s a lot of information available on the web and a few Google searches can give you some information that could lead to some valuable tips.

Google Docs is a No Brainer!

I’ve started using Google Docs more and more lately. In fact, I’m writing this piece up in Google Docs because I know that I can work on it no matter where I’m at. No more worrying about where my files are and if I’m working on the current latest version of the document.

Use Google Chrome, It’s Really Fast

At the risk of sounding like a huge crazy Google fanatic (and if you ask me, I may very well be one of those) I’m going to advise that you use Google Chrome. It’s fast and before long you’ll quit going to individual search engines pages and just enter what you need directly into the address bar, hit command and there’s your Google results. Google Chrome is fast and it’s not just the software that’s fast, you’ll find yourself just feeling more fast and productive as you use it.

Collaborate with Others

Another great way to get things done is to realize that you can’t do everything yourself. There are a lot of people probably in your circles that can do things for you, often cheaper than you could do them yourself. You can use Google Docs to develop collaborative documents and you can use social networking tools such as Facebook, Twitter, Google Buzz and LinkedIn to find people and work with those people to accomplish more.

Stay Motivated!

A huge part of productivity is to stay motivated. I can’t really recommend what will keep you motivated, since that is something that is unique to you. I know that there are some things that help keep me motivated such as looking over my goals, reading something I’ve written or accomplishing something.

I also find that listening to music on Pandora or having a chat or reading some of my favorite blogs also helps me stay motivated. Also, even something as simple and silly as watching a funny Youtube video helps me stay on top of things and keep myself motivated to keep going during the day.

I was emailed the other day with a warning about smart phones and photo geotagging.  There was a power point-type PDF file outlining the dangers of social media, photos and inadvertent geotagging (I found access to it online: check it out for yourself).  It was actually focused on military implications but the information found within it is extremely pertinent to anyone with a smart phone.

What is geotagging and what does it have to do with your smart phone or your photos?

Geotagging is when a file is labeled with metadata that isn’t usually visible to the casual viewer.  Metadata is information hidden within files that can be used by programs or even web apps.  In the instance of geotagging, photos are labeled with location information sharing the location where the photo was taken.  This information is used most often by web apps and social networks to place photos on maps, etc.

Many smart phones have the ability to use GPS to narrow down your approximate location and geotag your photos for you.  You have the ability to turn this option on and off but often times the default setting when you purchase a phone is on.  Often times people are unaware of this.  I know I was but after some tinkering once home with my phone I realized it and made the appropriate settings changes.

What is the danger of geotagging as it applies to your smart phone?

Before going into it, I’d like to share a link to an article about an incident that happened.  [ARTICLE]  Apparently Adam Savage from “MythBusters” took a picture of his car in front of his house on his way to work in the morning.  There could have been a few security implications with that one act, but add onto that the fact that he didn’t realize that his phone was set to geotag his photos.  This means that the world knows when and where the photo was taken.  Because of his comment, the location and time, any crook would know what his car looks like, where he lives and when he leaves to go to work.

My basic point is this, if you like to take photos with your smart phone, you’d better get to know your phone a bit better.  Know how to change location settings on your phone.  Know when your photos are being tagged with data.  You can even learn how to scrub the data from your current photos.

I will attempt to share as much information about phones and their manuals as I can, but ultimately it is up to you to read your own phone’s manual to learn the settings.

Find your smart phone’s user manual and read it.

You should have a copy of your smart phone’s user manual someplace.  You DO save your user manuals for your devices, don’t you?  To be totally honest, I don’t really save mine very often.  There is a reason for it.  These days it is so much faster and easier to just find them online and search for what I am looking for.  Find out your phone’s maker and model and run a search and you’ll probably find it very easily.  In fact, I ran a Google search for my HTC Evo and the first result was a direct link to the PDF manual.  I was able to easily hit Ctrl-F and search for “camera” and find the right page showing me how to change the location settings for photos.

If you don’t have your manual anymore, try a Google search.  If you’re still having trouble, say so in the comments and perhaps I can help you find it.

Scrub the meta data from your current photos.

Did you know that you can actually take the photos you already have and scrub the geotag information from them?  If you are running Windows on your computer (most people are), you can try this program called Geotag Security.  Don’t worry, it’s free.  If your phone happens to be an Android phone, you can try this Android app called Geo Erasor.

Geotagging isn’t all bad.

I know this article has been mostly about how dangerous geotagged photos are and how to take care of the problem.  However, I don’t want you to get the wrong idea that geotagging is all dangerous and that there is not reason for it.  For instance, do you remember the article I wrote about how to use your iPhone or Android phone to record your next hiking trip?  You can use location technology to share cool places with people and show folks what you are up to.

My only point is that you need to be careful and you need to know how to manipulate your phone’s settings.

The latest topic being dribbled on the news that is getting a lot of hype is the TSA security techniques being used in America’s airports.  People are complaining about both the pat-downs and the full body scanners and their intrusions into their privacy or convenience.  Let’s talk about it a little bit.

The issue we are dealing with is being able to catch terrorists before they bring a bomb or some other sort of weapon onto a plane.  We like the idea of using whatever means possible to catch these guys… or do we?  For one, we don’t like to be inconvenienced.  Our time is precious and waiting in line, being scanned or checked out physically all takes time.  Then there is the invasion of our privacy.  Is it worth all of that to ensure our safety?

I suppose if we were ever in a situation where a terrorist act was going to take place and we lived to tell about it, we may think twice about complaining.  Then again, I’m not sure.

Tell me what you think.  Are you willing to allow your family to be patted down or to be subjected to a very intrusive full body scan in the interest of security?

This issue reminds me of the same problem we face in the computer world.  We are almost constantly faced with the decision to sacrifice security for convenience.  Let me share a few areas this principle shows true:

• Passwords – I find myself considering less complicated passwords now that I spend much of my computer time on my Android phone.  A simple password is SO much easier to type on a touch screen key pad, trust me.  However, if you choose a simple password, you can be opening up yourself to a world of hurt if someone hacks your “convenient” password.  Don’t be stupid and do it right, alright?
• Antivirus – There are many hoops we can jump through in order to ward off virus attacks.  Antivirus software, firewalls, safe browsing techniques and even using Linux to browse the web are all ways to avoid the virus attacks.  Think about it though, they’re all so inconvenient, aren’t they?  Life would be easier if we didn’t have to install antivirus, set up firewalls, or change our OS.  You choose but be cautious!
• Social Networking - There are so many things we can do to make sure we are safe while interacting with the world via social networking.  So many people just don’t bother and figure bad stuff will never happen to them.  Beware, because bad stuff happens all the time.

Look at it this way:

The idea of this graphic is that the closer you get to achieving either total convenience or 100% security, the further you get from the other.

What do you think?  Do you think we tend to through away our security for the sake of convenience?  Or do you think we worry about security too much?

Interesting news lately!  It seems a hacker has leaked some confidential information on some of the employees over at Twitter (not good press) and some news sources (namely TechCrunch) have said they’ll publish some of it!  Now there’s a bit of a debate over whether or not it would be good practice or even legal to publish “stolen” information.  I’ll let the lawyers work that out (you can still comment on the issue if you want).

Its interesting to note that Twitter does not lay blame to the security of Google Apps (apparently where information was held).  It’s also apparent that it wasn’t the fault of Twitter’s technical security technology.  The hacker actually weased his way in via an emplyee’s private email account!  This isn’t the first time a high-profile personal email has been hacked into (remember Sarah Palin?).  He then used his access to that account to find access to the company documents.

Here’s the interesting thing.  I’ve read articles using this case as a case against cloud computing, at least where it is today.  Its true that SaaS (software as a service) and cloud computing has some improving to do, especially in the area of security, but I don’t see this as much of an example of it.  Let me explain where I think the leak could have been avoided.

In this modern age of computing and Internet use, many company security policies are in dire need of updating.  For instance, one security standard that should have been upheld is the avoidance of the use of personal email for the access of company information (that goes from documents to network access).  The company should have full control over the security of services such as email.  If there was a breach in the security of the company’s email, it would be the fault of IT and hopefully it would be kept up to date and monitored so there is very little chance of such a leak actually happening.

For a personal tip (one I must also take advantage of), you probably have username and password information for various services throughout your email inbox.  For instance, do you remember that time you signed up for such and such service, or that other time you lost your password for that other service so a new one was emailed to you?  Just stop for a moment and think about how many of your accounts throughout the web can and probably will be compromised if someone got a hold of your email password.  Perhaps it’s time to search those out, write down or otherwise securely save those passwords, and delete the email messages containing them.  Also, you SHOULD be periodically changing those passwords in case they become compromised without your knowledge (check out this article about making strong passwords that you can remember).

I’ve taken the liberty to link to some sources that should help with company securtiy as it would relate to the Internet, mobile work forces, and personal equipment used for work.  Check these out and see how you can keep yourself, and/or your company, secure from nightmares such as Twitter is now dealing with.

1. Securing Our Clients’ Data While on The Road
2. Wireless Insecurity
3. Managing the Security and Privacy of Electronic Data in a Law Office – Part 1
4. Managing the Security and Privacy of Electronic Data in a Law Office – Part 2
5. 5 things you should know about wireless security
6. You should have a data security policy.
7. Email Best Practices – Email Policies in an Organization
8. Email Best Practices – Personal Email Management

These are just a few of many links and sites dedicated to helping other secure their data.  in encourage, nay IMPLORE you to do some research and get yourself secure.  Your livelihood could depend on it!

I ran into Joey while visiting his blog, cleartechinfo.com, which is a blog dedicated to the technology and computer beginner.  He makes some very good tutorials showing how to get things done on the computer.  Check out his blog, you may find it useful!  Here’s the interview he was mkind enough to give:

Bio:

My name is Joey Camarena. I was born and currently live in Southern California. I have an A+ certification. I have worked a couple of years at a large retail store named “Fry’s” and about 7 years at Creative Labs Inc. I currently work for a local school district as a Computer Tech.

Do you mind being called a “techie” friend?

I do not mind being called a techie friend. I don’t get insulted that easily, I have been called much worse, lol.

How long have you been interested in technology or computers?

I have been interested in computers since the 4th or 5th grade. A neighborhood friend had this computer from Radio Shack which we played video games on. I begged my father to buy me one, which he did. Then years later he bought me my 1st real computer, a 386. I then discovered “Wolfenstein” and eventually, “Doom 2″. 1st person shooters became my heroine. So I had to learn how to build and maintain them to keep up with the latest hardware that was compatible with the newest FPS games.

Do people in your life (friends or relatives) seem to turn to you for computer related problems?

Yes. Most people I know, family, friends and coworkers turn to me for help on computer related issues.

If so, does this bother you?

This doesn’t bother me. I don’t mind helping out at all as long as I have the time. The only times I do not help them out the same day or weekend is when I want to get out, away from the computer and have a social life. If they call me up on my cell and leave a message I just call them back the next day. If they want me to fix their computer I just tell them I will not be available that weekend since I am busy.

If someone would contact you for assistance, what kind of steps should they take before asking for help?

The first thing I would tell them is to “RTM” (read the manual *edited*), lol. Next thing I would tell them is to make sure that all the cabling is plugged in correctly and restart the computer. Last thing I would instruct them to do is type their question into Google.

Where do you see the internet in 10 years?

In 10 years I see the print versions of newspapers going out of business and the industry transitioning 100% online or near that figure. I see the Internet integrated into more appliances and vehicles. People will have a very tough time living without it, even more than now.

Related to the last question, where do you see computers in 10 years?

In 10 years from now computer will be smaller, a LOT more powerful, use less energy and therefore produce less heat. Computers will be a lot smarter, artificial intelligence will be much improved but still not perfect. Media Center/Entertainment PCs that are made to be plugged into your living room TV and stereo will be more mainstream and a lot easier to plug in and use.

Your opinion on:

Best OS?

I have used Linux (Ubuntu and Fedora), XP and Vista (32 and 64-bit versions). The best operating system for most people is the 32-bit version of Windows XP Pro. It is the friendliest and most compatible OS that runs smoothly as long as you have a half-way decent PC. If you are very good with computers and don’t mind initially jumping through a few hoops I’d recommend Ubuntu.

Best Web browser?

The best browser is Mozilla Firefox. It runs smooth, fast and has a ton of free add-ons. I love it so much it was the main subject of at least a dozen video tutorials I have made.

Best free/paid antivirus program?

The best Anti-Virus program I have used is Kaspersky Anti-Virus. The computers at work are all using a different brand since I assume it was a lot cheaper to purchase but not nearly as good as Kaspersky. I had my boss buy me Kaspersky Anti-Virus since I noticed there were a lot of virus problems these past 9 months. I combine Kaspersky with the free version of Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware to scan and disinfect any computer at work that is infected with viruses/malware, etc. That combo works great. I do not have much experience with free anti-virus programs so I do not know enough to comment on them.

Best search engine?

I don’t think there is any doubt that Google is the best search engine. I can’t live without it.

What are the top 3-5 websites you visit regularly?

• Twitter.com
• Anandtech.com
• TomsHardware.com
• ProBlogger.net
• NickyCakes.com

Thanks for giving us some of your time, Joey!

-Anyone else, feel free to add to or comment on anything discussed above!

This is the first guest post here on Timmyjohnboy.com. This will not be the only guest post.  I’m having some guests come and blog for a few reasons, one of which is because I do not know everything and I think some experts in some other areas could do us all some good.

Silki is the the guest and she blogs about security issues on her blog, WebToolsAndTips.com. She was kind enough to share a little about file encryption and some simple tools to help us in that endeavor.  Check out her blog when you get a chance!

Here’s the post:

Most people think that file encryption is something that is needed only by large organizations. With the rapid growth of Internet and IT enabled services, your machines store volumes of personal and financial data, which can harm your privacy and security, if grabbed by wrong hands.

The key to safeguarding your data is file encryption. But unfortunately, many computer users do not use any file encryption tool. Some think that it is too geeky, some think that it is too costly to invest in a file encryption Tools and the rest are too busy and engrossed in their daily routine to give file encryption a serious thought.

Whatever the case is, file encryption needs to have an important place in your arsenal.

And it is not difficult. There are lots of file encryption tools available, which can easily do the job for you. And the best part is that you do not have to pay a penny to use them for your own use. Some of them are following:

Cryptainer LE:

Cryptainer LE uses 128 bit encryption to create a secure archive to store any type of data. It uses 128 bit encryption. You can add or extract files from this archive through a simple drag and drop operation. Cryptainer allows you to password protect and secure any file or folder on any media, including removable drives (Flash Drives, CD ROM’s etc.)

CryptoExpert Lite: CryptoExpert creates encrypted virtual disks but the best part is that these disks are visible as normal disks with drive letters. You can create encrypted containers (file vaults) up to 20 Megabytes in size, which are accessible on a virtual volume on the fly.

TrueCrypt: TrueCrypt is an open-source disc encryption software for Windows Vista/XP, Mac OS X, and Linux. It can create a virtually encrypted disk within a file and mounts it as a real disk. TrueCrypt encrypts an entire partition or storage device such as a USB flash drive or hard drive. It can encrypt a partition or drive where Windows is installed and the encryption is automatic, real time and transparent.

Dekart Private Disk Light: Dekart Private Disk Light creates one or more virtually encrypted disks on your hard drive and/or other external storage devices. This free disk encryption software creates a virtually encrypted disk within a file and mounts it as a real disk. All data encryption is extremely fast, automatic, on-the-fly and with no performance penalty.

Kruptos: Kruptos includes a powerful file shredding utility, and the ability to generate self-decrypting files. It is quick to download and simple to install. Kruptos is good for secure transportation of files on portable storage devices, such as portable hard drives or USB storage keys.

Try These File Encryption Utilities. Remember, your security and privacy deserves a careful look, and only you can provide it.

This is a guest post by Silki Garg. She advises on spyware removal, online threats and malware detection, on her Internet Security Blog. A visit to her Blog is highly recommended. You’re sure to find something of interest.

Thank you, Silki, for taking the time to introduce us to the world of file encryption!  Readers, tell me, have you ever or do you at this time utilize any kind of file encryption?  If so, tell me about it in the comments.

Today, it being Firefox Friday and all, I want to share with you another FireFox add-on I’ve started using called “Web Of Trust” or WOT.

I don’t remember how I came across the WOT add-on, but it was probably the Google alert I set up in Google reader to alert me via RSS whenever “Firefox” shows up somewhere on the internet.  However, since I found it, I’ve fallen in love with the idea.

Basically, WOT offers website ratings to give you an idea of how trustworthy the site is before you visit it.  It rates according to the following categories: trustworthiness, vendor reliability, privacy, and child safety.  Their primary source of the ratings is from other users rating sites, however they also use other “carefully chosen” trusted sources such as PhishTank to help protect users from new, rapidly spreading threats.

Here’s a demonstration video showing how it works:

I encourage you to check out the WOT About Us page to get a better understanding of what WOT is all about, and then download the WOT add-on for Firefox and use it!

Once you have the add-on installed, learn how to rate sites and help out the system!

Common back next Friday for Firefox Friday!