Security software: Safety online Online security

Broadband users are particularly vulnerable to online security breaches because an 'always on' connection provides a bigger window of opportunity for hacking.

A number of ISPs offer some security software as part of their packages, either free or at additional cost. But don't necessarily choose an ISP just on its security features – you may be better off going for a less expensive package and getting your security software separately.

Some firewalls and anti-virus programs are even downloadable from the internet free of charge such as AVG Anti-Virus.

Viruses

Viruses are computer programs designed to 'infect' your system, usually causing it to crash, either immediately or at a later date.

They work in a number of ways, but often exploit weaknesses in applications you are running, such as Windows Internet Explorer or Microsoft Outlook, for instance.

You can pick up viruses from files downloaded from the internet, but the most insidious type arrive in your inbox and can be activated even if you delete the email without opening it or an infected attachment.

Some are also designed to self-propagate, such as the Love Bug in 2000 which forwarded itself onto every person saved in the address book of anyone who opened the email.

Need help understanding computer security jargon? See our free guide to understanding PC security terms.

For more on online security, see our book Internet Made Easy for the Over 50s.