National campaign launched to help UK get safe online

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 4th Nov 2005

A new survey has shown that millions of UK internet users are putting themselves at risk from attack by internet criminals because they are either unaware of the threat or don't know how they can protect themselves.

To address the problem a new website has been launched. It contains reliable up-to-date information for home users and small businesses. Visit www.getsafeonline.org for information on:

• avoiding scams

• safe online banking

• advice for parents

• protecting your privacy

• buying and selling safely.

Organised internet crime is growing as more and more people use the internet to shop, bank and communicate. Internet technology is constantly developing and the ways criminals defraud victims online changes just as quickly. This makes it especially important to keep up-to-date on ways to protect your computer, your business, yourself and your family.

Get Safe Online is a joint initiative between the Government, the National Hi-Tech Crime Unit and private sector sponsors.