New guidance from Citizens Advice urges people to 'Get Safe Online'
28th October 2005
New factsheets urging people to be vigilant and aware of their rights online have been published by problem-solving charity Citizens Advice.
The safety drive comes as Citizens Advice backs www.getsafeonline.org.uk a one-stop-shop for independent expert advice launched this week by government and leading business to help citizens and small businesses protect themselves against internet problems.
More and more people are falling victim to online threats: viruses and unwanted email, rogue traders and scams as well as online fraud such as 'phishing' and identity theft.
The fact sheets are designed to help people to use the internet safely by giving informed advice on how to deal with fraud online but also to help them understand what they can and can't do when accessing other people's material and visiting websites.
The three new fact sheets are now available at www.adviceguide.org.uk in the 'fact sheet' section in the drop-down menu on the home page.
The fact sheets cover:
- Fraud on the internet
- Offensive internet sites
- The internet - using other people's material
The information is set out in easy-to-understand language and details important information about where people can get further help.
Citizens Advice Head of Public Information Liz Seward said:
"More and more people are shopping and doing personal business on the internet such as filing tax returns and buying goods such as CDs, videos and DVDs.
"We want to help people to understand what they can and can't do whilst online and offer some informed advice for when things go wrong.
"The new factsheets available at www.adviceguide.org.uk can help people make decisions about what to do if they see offensive material online or fall victim to an internet scam. Advice is also available to help people understand the rules about using other people's material."
Last updated: February 22, 2007