Media release
iiNet urges Australians to use protection and practice safe surfing in public
1 November 2011 - iiNet, Australia's second largest DSL broadband provider, has released a fact sheet as part of its Online Safety Series which offers tips on how to safely surf the Internet when using a public computer or public WiFi connection.
iiNet's Compliance Manager, Rebecca Moonen, said the latest instalment in the series provides web users with ways to maximise their safety and security in a situation where they are more vulnerable to fraud, theft and hardware infections.
"Internet cafés and WiFi hotspots have become commonplace in Australian cities, but extra precaution is required when accessing these public connections," Ms Moonen said.
"Our factsheet is designed to be downloaded and shared so we can spread the word on safe online practices, especially for those using the Internet outside of their home network."
- Think before you submit and cover your tracks - limit the amount of personal banking and online shopping you do when using public computers or WiFi and delete your browsing history, cookies and cache before logging off.
- Watch your back - just like when using an ATM, make sure no one is watching what you're doing and what you're typing and if you leave the computer for any reason, log out so that the computer can't be accessed by a passer-by.
- Some like it HOT - avoid hotspots that are run by people or organisations you don't know as the not so nice out there can set up rogue networks to access your private information. Consider encrypting your personal files so they're protected from snooping outsiders that may be using the same wireless network.
- Practice safe surfing - when not in use, disable your device's wireless and Bluetooth to save your security being compromised and avoid using a USB memory stick in public computers as malicious software can transfer from an infected computer to your home PC.
iiNet's Online Safety Series was introduced to help Australians become more aware of safe practices when surfing the web. Each month, information will be released and made available for download from the iiNet website. Topics covered by the safety series include social networking, online shopping, phishing emails and password security.
To download this month's complete factsheet, learn more about iiNet's Online Safety Series or to register interest in an Online Safety Seminar visit www.iinet.net.au/about.
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For further information, please contact:
Anthony Fisk or Jane Humphries
Communications ‐ iiNet
Ph: +61 8 9214 2210
Email: media@staff.iinet.net.au
About iiNet
iiNet is Australia's second largest DSL Internet Service Provider (ISP) and the leading challenger in the telecommunications market. We employ more than 2000 inquisitive staff across four countries and support over 1.3 million broadband, telephony and Internet Protocol TV (IPTV) services nationwide.
We're a publicly listed company and we maintain our own super-fast broadband network. Our vision is to lead the market with products that harness the potential of the Internet and then differentiate with award-winning customer service.
To achieve this, we employ creative thinkers and true advocates of technology. Our people are a huge part of the iiNet success story, so we've developed a unique and stimulating work culture to ensure they remain engaged and inspired.
A lot has changed since our CEO founded iiNet in a suburban garage back in 1993 and the broadband landscape continues to evolve. What hasn't changed is our passion for the transformative benefits of the Internet and our commitment to helping Australians connect better.