Internet security

Internet threats are one of the main security risks to your business. Dodgy websites and fishy emails can be a source of virus infections and spyware, or can result in business identity theft and financial loss. Here’s how to avoid them.

Key internet threats

You may encounter a number of internet and website security issues. For example:

• Malicious websites can infect your computers with viruses, spyware and other nasty software.
• Phishing emails and websites pose as legitimate organisations in order to persuade you to hand over information, like your banking details.
• Fraudulent online shops will take your money but never deliver the goods or services promised.

Taking key steps to protect your computer, like installing security software and using a firewall, will help you guard against these internet threats. However, there are a number of other things you and your staff can do.

Website security: spotting dodgy sites

Most website and internet security problems occur as the result of an action taken. For instance, if you open a suspicious email attachment, your computer could be infected by a virus.

It’s therefore important your staff understand these issues. Make sure your IT policies include guidance on browsing the internet and handling emails, and offer training if you feel it’s necessary.

Additionally, stay on your guard and follow these tips for good website security:

• Don’t judge on looks alone. It doesn’t take much effort to clone a website, so don’t assume a site is legitimate just because it looks like it is.
• Check domain names. Malicious sites often substitute characters in domain names (like a “1” for an “I”) so they look legitimate at first glance.
• Use security software. Security software and web browsers often include website security filters which warn of suspicious sites.
• Watch out for boxes and pop-ups. Some dodgy websites display pop-up windows to trick you into installing malicious programs. Close them at once.
• Guard your information. Don’t enter information about you or your business unless you’re sure a website is safe.

If you’re buying from a website, make sure the site you’re on uses a secure connection to transfer your payment details. Look for a padlock in your web browser – click this for information about the company running the site. If it doesn’t match the site you’re on, don’t proceed with your purchase.

Always check that an online business has a real world presence, with a street address and telephone number. And it’s a good idea to buy with a credit card, as most offer extra protection if anything goes wrong with your purchase.

Email security

Good internet security software and an effective spam filter will block most suspicious emails before you ever see them. To avoid getting tricked by any that do make it through, follow these key guidelines:

• Don’t click links. Phishing emails contain dodgy links. To avoid malicious sites, type in website addresses manually instead of clicking links in emails.
• Be wary of attachments. Don’t open ones you aren’t expecting, even if they’ve come from someone you know. They can contain viruses – and the sender's computer could be infected too.
• Watch for inconsistencies in messages. Phishing emails often contain spelling and grammar mistakes, aren’t personalised with your name, or feel wrong somehow. Trust your instincts.
• Never reply to spam, or click unsubscribe links. Although legitimate companies will honour requests to unsubscribe from their emails, spammers simply use unsubscribe links to confirm an email address is active.