Internet Safety

Some people are nervous of going online because of fears over internet safety.

It's worth reassuring the person you are helping that with some common sense and a few simple precautions the risks can be minimal.

Follow these simple tips to staying safe online:

Make sure your computer is secure. Installing security software on your computer and keeping it up to date is advisable. There are many good anti-virus protection programmes available. You should also turn on your firewall. For more information about security software visit BBC Webwise.

You wouldn't give out your personal information to a stranger in the street so don't give it out to strangers on the internet! Occasionally people will send emails to try and access private information such as bank account details and passwords. Avoid opening emails from people you don't know. Delete them immediately. If you do open them by accident, don't click on any links.

There are a lot of myths about social networking. Firstly, many people believe that Facebook, Twitter and other social networks are for children. Actually figures show that over 50% of the people on these networks are aged 35 and over. The second big myth is that it's risky and people will steal your personal details.It's no more risky than using email and viewing other internet websites. And thirdly, it's difficult to use. It's not. Remember to use a common sense approach. Don't give out too much personal information and consider keeping your profile closed allowing only family and friends to view your news and photos. You can read more about social media and other friendship sites at BBC Webwise.

Password tips. Whether creating an email address or shopping online, choose a password that is memorable and not easy for someone to guess. The best type of password uses a combination of letters and numbers. This makes it a lot more difficult for internet baddies to work out what it would be. Help someone practice creating a strong password using the BBC Webwise password high striker activity.

Be wary of free offers such as screensavers, software, games or music. Never download illegal software, music or videos. Ask yourself whether the offer is realistic. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Anti-virus and anti-spyware tools can detect 'malware' - programs that might be malicious. If you keep them running in the background they will detect malware hidden in email attachments and files you download from the web as soon as you try to open them.

Online shopping is convenient and can save you money, but it's not quite the same as shopping in the high street. It's essential to make sure that you're dealing with a reputable and established business. Look for a padlock symbol either next to the address or at the bottom of the webpage. Another tip is to look at the web address. A secure site will start with https://. The 's' is what indicates it's a secure site.

Used safely and sensibly, the internet can help people get more out of life. To find out more on internet safety, take a look at BBC Webwise and browse the websites on the 'Elsewhere on the web' right panel of this page.