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Filtering emails can prevent risk of ID theft

Despite the fact that spam emails often contain viruses and other online threats that can be used to steal private information leading to ID theft, only ten per cent of people automatically filter their emails for such threats, it has emerged.

Based on this and other statistics, James Parker, commercial manager of mobiles and broadband at moneysupermarket.com says the need for people to have proper internet security is paramount.

This is especially vital for people using Wi-Fi networks in light of a recent survey by the organisation, which showed that some 11 per cent of people had used another person's Wi-Fi network illegally.

"The consequences can be severe," warns Mr Parker. "This could be accessing your internet connection to download obscene material, gathering personal information to defraud you or even stealing your identity."

To prevent this from happening, the organisation recommends password protecting wireless internet connections with non-dictionary words and numbers.

And to ward off spam, moneysupermarket.com says users should make use of any automatic spam filters or pop up blockers that are provided by both the email provider and internet security provider.

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