About this Site

Practically everything you ever wanted to know is available on the Internet, including the answers to almost all of your computer problems. But the Internet can also be the source of many security threats that will make your Internet experience extremely unpleasant and at worst, extremely expensive.

This website contains resources to assist newcomers to the Internet in becoming aware of the many and varied security threats and other issues they will encounter.

Most people are familiar with the well-known security problems -- viruses, worms, trojans and the like, but many of them are totally oblivious of the hidden plague -- malware -- which includes adware, spyware, hijackers and diallers ... the list goes on!

The overwhelming belief of many first time Internet users is that an antivirus program is all they need to protect their computer. An antivirus program however, is only one of several layers of protection needed.

A personal firewall is also essential and while Windows XP's built-in firewall is probably adequate for occasional internet users with a dial-up connection, adsl / broadband users need to consider third-party firewall protection.

Malware protection is also essential and some of the best products for the home user are free!

Botnets which can include as many as 100,000 individual zombie computers, can distribute spam e-mail, spread viruses, attack other computers and servers, and commit other kinds of crime and fraud. Botnets are highly valued by online criminals, and have become a serious problem on the Internet.

Educate your children

Everyone knows educating children is vital to keep them safe on the Internet. Do you know what your children are looking at online?  Do you know who they are chatting to on MSN Messenger?  They are the very things parents need to be aware of.  Talk to your children about these issues.

Parents and children need to make time to sit together and talk about the best way to use the Internet that will protect the child and give peace of mind for the parent.  Children require guidelines and some simple rules for everyday use of the Internet. Source: Australian Government Netalert

Family Safety from Windows Live OneCare

Help protect your children online with Family Safety. You can specify the people your children can communicate with, the websites they can view, and the search results they are shown.

The Internet is a great place for children to learn and have fun. As a parent, you want to ensure that your children's online experiences are safer, more secure and done with your guidance.

• Step one – Understand online risks and engage with your children.
• Step two – Implement strategies and tools such as Family Safety that help you provide the level of protection you feel is right for your family.

Click here to go to the site: https://fss.live.com/

In the end it comes down to YOU -- no matter what security programs you have installed YOU still hold the largest chance of keeping malicious code like viruses and worms off your computer by simply following this guideline -- your intuition is your best first and best line of defence.