Browse the internet safely

What are the risks?

Malicious websites pose many risks:

• Spyware and viruses
• Phishing attacks designed to get your credit card or personal information
• Inappropriate content

How do I protect myself?

Whether you use Internet Explorer, Firefox or Opera, we have advice about how to set up your browser safely.

There is also advice on avoiding inappropriate or criminal websites and how to spot secure ones.

In this Section

• Avoid criminal websites

  Criminal websites include sites that try to steal your identity (’Phishing’), fraudulent online shops, hate sites, sites that distribute pirated software, videos or music and others.

• Internet content filtering

  Internet content filtering, sometimes called parental controls, can block access to offensive websites. It is not failsafe but it can be very helpful.

• Learn about secure web pages

  Digital signatures are used to prove you are who you say you are online. They are also used to make sure that secure websites, for example ecommerce sites, are secure from eavesdroppers.

• Use Internet Explorer safely

  Most people use Internet Explorer to browse the worldwide web. The latest version contains many safety features.

• Use the Opera web browser safely

  The Opera web browser is popular with many users but it still needs to be used safely.

• Using the Firefox web browser

  Firefox is growing in popularity as an alternative web browser. Like other web browsers, it needs to be used safely.