A group of MPs has suggested that the Government should focus on spreading awareness of cybersecurity, rather than “scaring people” about the dangers of using the internet.
This notion was put forward by the Commons Science and Technology Committee which stated that malicious software, or malware as it is known, was gaining momentum as more and more businesses use the internet as a revenue stream.
In a recent report into cybercrime and associated security released by the Committee, it said safeguards in order to combat cyber attacks were routine and as long as members of the public take “sensible precautions” then the internet remains a “reasonably safe place”.
The Committee also said that a TV campaign around the subject of cybercrime would help to raise awareness and, it would help, if it contained less jargon than current information.
In a speech, the Committee’s Chairman, Labour MP Andrew Miller stated: “Knowledge is the best defence against fear”.
He added that the Government’s current Get Safe Online website requires better promotion and suggested that all internet-enabled communication devices should be sold with advice on personal safety.
Only time will tell if the suggestion is put in to practice.
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