Net users told to get safe online

Widespread ignorance about basic computer security is putting millions of people at risk from net-savvy criminals, a study suggests.

It found 83% of 1,000 people questioned were not doing enough to protect themselves online, with 53% saying they did not know how to improve security.

Some 42% relied on family and friends for advice, the survey revealed.

It was released to mark a Get Safe Online campaign backed by the National Hi-Tech Crime Unit and the government.

"Increasingly we are seeing organised criminals turning to the internet as a vehicle for their criminality," said Sharon Lemon, head of the crime unit.

"And as more of us are connecting to the internet to shop, bank and communicate, we need to make sure that we do so as safely as possible."

Links:
Get Safe Online
National High Tech Crime Unit