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12 million hit by computer viruses in half a year

A new report has revealed that 12 million people in the UK have had their internet security compromised in the past six months by a hacker, virus, malware or spyware programmes.

This is despite the fact that 95 per cent of those affected claimed to have had internet security software, research conducted by price comparison website moneysupermarket.com has shown.

While 19 per cent claimed to have been infected as a result of just surfing the internet, 12 per cent admitted to aiding the malicious programmes by opening infected files.

In light of the findings, it is vital for consumers to be even more aware of online security threats, said James Parker, the manager of broadband at moneysupermarket.com.

"Most people use some of their personal details online – whether through internet banking or online shopping – and it's vital that people take appropriate steps to protect this information and themselves."

Internet security experts recommend not opening attachments, especially if they are in unsolicited messages, to minimise the risk of being exposed to such online threats.

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