Get safe online

Millions of UK Internet users are putting themselves at risk of attack from internet criminals. Why? Because they don't understand threats to their PC or how to guard against them.

Protect your PC

Ensure your PC is secure by doing a 'SAFE' check:

S = Spyware - run an anti-spyware programme
A = Anti-virus - get anti-virus protection
F = Firewall - have a firewall and make sure it's switched on
E = Ensure your operating system is updated

Protect you and your family

Take time to educate yourself and your family so you understand the risks and apply reasonable judgement when you're online.

• Tips on spotting and dealing with spam
• Protect your family
• Protect your identity
• Protect your password
• Web terms explained
• Get Safe Online - Government Guidelines on Staying Safe Online

Keep monitoring and stay alert

Internet threats are always changing. The Home Office announced the launch of a new police unit dedicated to fighting cybercrime. Given that the scale of online fraud and internet crime runs into billions it may be too little too late. Internet crime runs across borders. It is doubtful at this stage that one poorly funded police unit can achieve results given these circumstances.

As ever, the buck stops with you.

Did you know...?

• Only 15% of people believe that it's their own responsibility to protect themselves from cyber crime;
• 49% believe it should be the responsibility of big business;
• 11% think it should be the Government's responsibility;
• One in five people in the UK (17%) said Internet crime was of greater concern than physical crimes like car theft and mugging;
• But despite this, 22% of us still open suspicious files from unknown sources and can unwittingly spread viruses to others.

It seems when it comes to safe computing there is confusion about how to practice this. Although a massive 87% of people surveyed said they rated securing their computer as one of their top security priorities, 52% of people went on to say they had little or no knowledge of safe computing practices.

Furthermore, most of the Internet users interviewed didn't update their security software enough - leaving them vulnerable to online attack. Only a third of respondents (32%) updated their security software at least every three months.

The lesson is clear, get protected if you want to get the best from the web.

Norton Security offers complete protection online against phishing and viruses, malware, spam and more. Personal firewall, parental controls and Norton anti-virus come as standard with Norton Internet Security. Live upgrades ensure complete and ongoing protection. Intelligent scans ignore trausted files, scanning new or suspect files only. Silent modes minimise disruption when gaming or viewing films.