Security tips on using social networks and wi-fi hotspots

According to the latest report from getsafeonline, more than three-fourths of internet browsers (88 %) are aware of the need of basic internet security although most of them are still vulnerable to security risks thanks to the new emerging technologies like Wifi and P2P social networks. It is found from the survey that majority of the internet users install some kind of protection features like firewall, anti-virus and anti-spam software in their PCs, however, when they go wireless using hotspots or log on into social networking sites, they are blissfully unaware of the risks involved and expose themselves to a large number of other internet users.

Gillian Merron, the Cabinet Office Minister asked the new generation of internet users to be more alert in such situations:
“The internet is a fantastic tool, whether you use it at home, in school, at your local library or at work. The risks we are highlighting today can be easily fixed and do not mean that people should stop using social networking sites and wireless networks. People simply need to take a few basic steps and simple precautions which they can find by going to www.getsafeonline.org to help keep themselves, their families and their businesses safe online.”

Social networking sites pose enormous threat to privacy and  security of those who log into those sites. In the UK, more than 10 million are members of a networking site. What is alarming is the fact that one-fourth of them voluntarily (or obliged to) enter personal details like telephone number, email address and such details which are displayed as profiles to other users. Some users, especially youth, also post the photos and details of other people without getting their permission causing threats to their privacy.

The Managing Director of getsafeonline, Tony Neate, cautions that such revelation of personal details could be harmful  as there are chances that they might be exploited by criminals.

“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.”

It was also found that wifi access via public hotspots is increasingly popular these days. More than 7.8 million people are found to be regularly using public hotspots which can be lacking in security features and enable anyone to indulge in wifi thefts. While most people take much more care when they  set up their personal wireless broadband or network in their homes or offices with all security features, however, they often fail to realize the security risks they may face when they use public hotspots. These places often become a haven for criminals who may intercept, steal and even add or delete the files you access via wireless network.

Is there anyway to check these problems? “Yes” says Neatle, “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.”