Online Security Tips

1. Don't click on links in emails or online if you do not trust the sender. Even if the message or email comes directly from someone you know, then type the address in the browser. If you don't know the person that it has come from, the best thing is to ignore it.
2. Don't download or run files from dubious sources. Even if a file is sent by somebody you know then check with them independently they actually sent the file and it is safe to use.
3. Don't trust strangers: In chat rooms or on instant messaging, you can never really be sure who you are talking to. Especially in online communities, where people have never met in face-to-face.
4. Don't give out confidential information across the Internet: Never send private information (your details, your address, etc.) via email or instant messaging, and never publish this kind of information in a blog or on a forum. Limit you profile for services such as FaceBook or Myspace, never include confidential information such as your age or your address.
5. Keep an eye out for suspicious signs: If a program you don't remember installing starts telling you your PC is infected or pop-ups appear inviting you to buy some kind of antivirus, watch out! A malicious program could well have been installed on your system.
6. Practice good password usage - Change default passwords to 'strong' password made of letters, numbers and symbols mixed up. Try to use different passwords for each login and ensure you do not write down or disclose passwords.
7. Install an effective security solution such as Tesco Tech Support Internet Security to protect you from malware and other online threats.

And the most important tip is

8. Use your common sense when using your computer. If something sounds too good to be true chances are pretty good it is. If in doubt ask somebody you trust.

Further Information

Below are some websites which may offer further information on staying safe online.

http://www.defendyourchild.com

http://www.getsafeonline.org

http://www.banksafeonline.org.uk

www.identitytheft.org.uk