Life & Style

The Internet is an inter-connected network of computers all around the world. By itself, it is no more dangerous than using the telephone or writing a letter.

Shopping

It is possible to place an order by telephone, by dialling a specific number for the mail order company, usually speaking to one salesperson at the company, and then completing payment details either by credit or debit card.

When you place an order online, you connect to a website address, but much of the information you enter could be intercepted by anyone connected to the Internet, without you becoming aware. In order to minimise this risk, always ensure that the website connection you are using is secured (using SSL) before entering any personal details.

This is often indicated by the 'padlock' icon and the address prefix 'https://'. To ensure that the website you have connected to is what it says, you can check the SSL certificate of the site. In most browsers this is done by 'double-clicking' the padlock icon.

Scams

If someone in real life, offers a 'new Rolex watch' for a fraction of the retail price, most people would be suspicious that it was either fake or stolen. If an offer seems too good to be true, it most likely is! The same is true on the Internet. Whether by an email sent to you, or on a website, always be cautious about offers which seem to be too good. More often then not, such offers are bogus, and may even contain further hidden dangers.

Security

Perhaps the biggest danger is that once a computer is connected to the Internet, it is possible for any other computer, anywhere in the world, to connect to that computer. Internet connections are two-way. Whilst this means it is possible to find products, services and information from around the world, it also means that criminals worldwide can connect to your computer!

Now you may think, that no-one could possibly be interested in anything that you have on your computer, but you may be surprised. Often the information on your computer can be more valuable to a criminal than the computer itself! This is especially true if you have ever used your computer for any of the following :-

• banking online
• shopping online
• business or personal email
• letter writing
• photography
• games either online or offline

Any one of these activities may provide a criminal with enough information to steal your identity, your account information or your physical address.

Protection

Fortunately there are three basic steps which everyone can take to protect themselves from most of these kinds of threats.

• Antivirus: Perhaps the most important step is to install and regularly update antivirus software. There are many packages available and even certified free versions will provide complete virus protection if kept up-to-date.

• Firewall: Imagine leaving an expensive car in a garage, and then leaving the door open. This is exactly what a computer without any firewall protection is; an invitation to criminals. A firewall may be hardware (bundled as part of a router) or software, and will act as a gate which will only allow you out and the people you want to come in, as it were.

• Anti-spyware: Many threats advertise themselves as useful features, and to be aware of these types of programs you should install (and regularly update) an anti-spyware software package. The many of these are free, although it should be noted that it is a minefield to pick the right one! The website Spyware Warrior (http://spywarewarrior.com/) is a good place to research developments in anti-spyware software.

Try not to be worried about using the Internet, there are many excellent things to be found. However always be cautious; don't do anything you wouldn't do face-to-face; and be careful what information you give out about yourself.

• Bill has worked in forensics and investigative science in liaison with the UK Home Office Internet Taskforce. He currently develops e-learning training courses, online services, and provides content research relating to digital evidence and Internet crime.

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The views expressed on this page are those of the contributor and the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the BBC.