HackerSafe optimizes search for Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

NEW YORK - Can security increase search? Web sites using ScanAlert's Hackersafe trust mark report that the security certification does improve search engine optimization.

The security firm was exhibiting at SES this week and discussed how offering three one-way PR6-PR8 text links from ScanAlert's Hacker Safe Merchant Directory helped sites such as Vermont Teddy Bear Company and Stacks and Stacks raise organic search placement.

"Having the Hacker Safe security logo on the page increases consumer trust in purchasing online," said Nigel Ravenhill, director of marketing at ScanAlert, Napa, CA. 

Once a merchant is Hacker Safe-certified, it is automatically entered into the Hacker Safe Merchant directory, and is thus linked to the other Hacker Safe firms in the database. These clients include Home Depot, Sony and Guitar Center.

Vermont Teddy Bear Company saw 8.9 percent higher conversion for its site at www.vermontteddybear.com and 12.3 percent higher conversion for its Pajamagram.com site, after subscribing to the HackerSafe security service.

HackSafe's secure presence does not just drive sales through e-commerce sites.

A recent partner Live Person, who powers many major live chat and click-to-call software for e-commerce sites like Land's End and BackCountry.com sees many sales through instant messages. With the HackerSafe software, the firm has now secured its communications.

Mr. Ravenhill said that consumers are still getting used to the idea of purchasing online.

"We see a large number of customers buying from IP addresses that are the same as the call centers, meaning that many customers are calling into the call centers," he said. "We are hoping that by using our logo, these customers will be able to drive more business online as customers feel more secure in their transaction."