Computer security explained

You probably use your computer to send and receive emails. Maybe you bank online, pay bills or buy things too. All these things involve sending sensitive information – like your credit card number – over the Internet.

Computer security is all about keeping this information safe.

Sometimes it's as simple as taking a few precautions. You wouldn't give your credit card number to a stranger in the street, so don't give it to a stranger on the Internet either.

In every community you find people who are intent on doing harm. Sadly, that's true of the Internet as well.

There are people who write computer viruses. There are people who try and steal your identity. And there are people who will try and clog up your email with promises of get rich quick schemes.

The good news is that these are only a tiny proportion of all Internet users. And by taking a few precautions, as well as using some security software like the McAfee Security for O2 Home Broadband, you can take advantage of all the good stuff online without putting yourself at risk.

View our interactive guide to get more support setting up and going wireless