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Overcoming the risks.

Explanation of the risks associated with using a broadband internet connection plus information on the security precautions you should take.


All Packages    Unlimited    ADSL    Cable    Mac    Business

The widespread use of broadband to connect to the web has greatly enhanced and revolutionised the way people use the internet, however it does carry with it associated risks. The ‘always on’ nature of broadband makes computers much more vulnerable to attack or intrusion than the traditional dial up connection. However, by taking the relevant security precautions you can help protect the information you hold on your computer.

Security Threats

Whilst online your computer is subject to both internal and external threats. Viruses, worms, Trojan horses and other malicious programmes (sometimes called malware) can enter your computer through email attachments, via an infected website or whilst you are downloading information from the web. These are internal threats and take the form of malicious codes, attacking computer systems from within. If your computer starts to behave erratically with programmes opening on their own accord and files becoming corrupted or disappearing it is possible that your computer has become infected with malware.

Once a computer is infected, you will more than likely have to pay a computer expert to remove it; with more advanced malware irreversible damage may be done before you even realise that there is a problem. Your computer is also open to external attacks such as those from hackers trying to get your personal details or to gain control of your computer for other malicious purposes. For this reason it is best to take precautions before you start using your broadband connection.

Security Precautions

There are some basic precautions that you can take to protect your computer. A good anti-virus is essential as this will constantly scan your computer for malicious code. It is essential that your anti virus is updated weekly and if possible set to automatic update as new viruses are created everyday and your anti virus needs to be kept up to date as the codes it needs to search for.

Firewalls - The installation of a Firewall is another necessary security measure; these monitor the data entering and leaving your browser and stop and information that isn’t permitted. Many routers come equipped with firewalls designed to protect home networks, however it is possible to install firewall software on your computer itself. Some firewalls can be set so as to block access to questionable websites, protecting your computer further.

Anti spyware - A good anti spyware package is also essential; once spyware gains access to your computer a hacker can monitor your every online action, from the websites you visit to the passwords and details you enter. Anti spyware helps to scan for intrusive computer programmes and prevents anyone from getting access to your personal information.

Email security - As infected email attachments are one of the main ways viruses and intrusive programmes gain access to your computer, there are several basic precautions you can take. Only open emails from people you know; to go one step further you can fit an anti spam filter on your mail box which will only allow access to emails from recognised individuals and prevent junk mail from entering your inbox. Additionally ensure that you or anyone in your family never includes personal details in an email. Banks and reputable companies will never ask you to mail or ‘confirm’ your details with an email, this is however a common method of identity fraud used by online fraudsters.

Parental controls - If children are likely to be using the internet it is important to set up parental control measures. Check whether your provider will allow you to set up boundaries for individual children so you could set access appropriate for an 8 year old which is more restrictive than that allowed for a teenager. Some parental control software will also allow you to monitor the sites your child has visited and also the emails they have received and sent. Also advise your child never to give out their personal details to anyone they don’t know online.

The internet is used from everything from shopping and chatting to banking and storing personal details so it is essential that you have the right security programmes installed to protect you and your family. It is advisable to check the broadband security measures offered by an internet service provider before you sign up to a package and also ensure that your computer is fitted with appropriate, regularly updated security software too. By taking these precautions you and your family can explore the internet safely.