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Web users warned about the risks of internet-based crime

According to research from GetSafeOnline.org, social networking and unsecured Wi-Fi networks are putting people at risk of internet-based crime.

The research found that users have become more vigilant with regards to security on their home PCs, installing up-to-date security software such as a firewall or anti-virus.  However, the Get Safe Online campaign warns that people are now exposing themselves to other types of internet-based crime.

Facebook – Friend or foe?

One of the key risk areas was found to be social networking websites.  Over 10.8 million people across the UK are registered to a social networking site such as Facebook or MySpace. One in four posted confidential or personal information on their profile.  GetSafeOnline.org says this provides rich pickings for criminals.

Tony Neate, managing director of GetSafeOnline.org, said: “Your date of birth and where you live is enough for someone to set up a credit card in your name. So whilst most people wouldn’t give this information to a stranger in real life, they will happily post it online where people they don’t know can see it.”

Whilst various privacy settings are available on many of these websites, it appears that people do not always use them.

Wireless networks were identified as another key risk factor.  GetSafeOnline.org says that over 7.8 million people in the UK have left their own internet access unsecured and open for anyone to use.  Having an unsecured Wi-Fi network can allow criminals to hijack your PC, for example by removing or adding files to your machine.

People were also falling short in the use of passwords online.  It found that many use the same password for all websites.  Many are named after a family member or partner.  The solution of course is not to use obvious passwords, and also use different ones for different websites.

Tony Neate continued: “The good news is that a few basic steps and simple precautions are enough to prevent these problems and stop online criminals in their tracks.”

The Get Safe Online campaign is a joint initiative between the Government, the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) and private sector sponsors, highlightiing and raising awareness of internet security issues.

Find out more about the steps you can take to protect yourself from internet based crimes by visiting GetSafeOnline.org.