Tips for secure internet use

Think carefully before clicking on something. Be alert to suspicious activities. Or make it easier for yourself and install good security software.

Tip 1: Don't just use antivirus software

A virus scanner alone cannot protect your computer. A firewall, identity protection, anti-spyware and much more are needed to help ensure your security when surfing, shopping, banking and communicating on-line. Fortunately, complete security packages are available that do all this for you, without bothering you with complex questions or messages.

Make sure that the security software is activated.

Make sure your browser's security is activated. Preferably at a normal or high level.

Tip 2: Perform software updates

Make sure that the software and particularly the security package has been updated to the latest version.

Make sure that the automatic update feature of the operating system (Windows for example) is activated.

Make sure that the automatic update feature of the browser (for example Internet Explorer or Firefox) is activated.

Make sure that the automatic update feature of the security software is activated.

Tip 3:Check that the site is reliable

Preferably buy from websites with a good reputation or that you know.

Make sure that the page containing your personal details and bank information is secure. The web address should start with HTTPS and not with HTTP. In the bottom right-hand corner of the browser window you should see a closed padlock icon. hangslot

When you log in to the bank's website, you will automatically log in via a secure internet connection. Fraudsters try to get around this security by sending you to an imitation website. So remember to check that you are using the bank's genuine website.

Are the names of the web page and of the bank spelt correctly?

Don't be caught out by incredible bargains that are too good to be true. A designer handbag or watch for £100 is probably not genuine.

Try not to click on links in an email to access a website.

Never send bank details via email. Anyone can intercept and read them.

Tip 4:Double checking

Regularly check your credit card statements, particularly the small amounts debited.

Tip 5: Protect your wireless internet network.

Not just laptops, but also ‘normal’ computers can have a wireless internet connection. If you have wireless internet make sure that your connection is properly secured.

Tip 6: Theft

Never save a password in a browser. Make regular back-ups of your existing photos.

Tip 7: Back-up A back-up isn't an Internet threat, but rather a solution.

Files or photos can be lost as a result of theft, fire or viruses. You can help protect against this by making back-ups and saving these in a different location to the original files. Many complete security packages have an online back-up feature. This lets you make back-ups easily and securely via the Internet.