14 Where to learn more
GetNetWise provide a good general guide to safety on the Internet.
- Antivirus products A good guide to the quality of an antivirus package can be found at either of the two industry standard websites, both based in the UK. There is also some excellent test work carried out at the University of Magdeburg on antivirus packages that work on several operating systems (Windows, Linux, etc.). There is a useful set of points for safe computing on the Sophos website. You could use these as part of your safe computing strategy at home.
- Firewalls If you want to investigate firewalls further, Zone Labs offer a free version of their software. Alternatively you could look at Kaspersky's Anti-Hacker firewall product. Other packages can also be found on the Internet.
- Hoaxes and scams Electronic Ephemera is a recognised source of accurate information on hoaxes and scams, both past and present.
- Cookies Cookie Central has lots of information.
- Adware and spyware
The websites below offer software to detect and remove spyware and adware. There are many others that offer the same type of service.
- Lavasoft – ‘Ad-aware’ program for removing adware and spyware.
- Bullet Proof Soft – spyware and adware remover.
- Spybot Search and Destroy – Spybot, spyware and adware remover.
- Protecting children online
- The Using computers and the Internet section of the ParentsCentre site
- NSPCC site on helping your child surf safely
- BBC Chat guide
- Kidsmart
- Advice for schools
- Child-friendly search engines
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