Help for Cable customers

Although there are many dangers online, following some basic rules will help protect you and your family from even the most tenacious threats.

For further information on the tips below, see our related articles.

Use your common sense

General vigilance is your best weapon. Risks are out there, so only trust people and sites you know.

Install anti-virus

Viruses are everywhere so install anti-virus software which will constantly update and protect your computer. What does Virgin Media Security do automatically?

Virgin Media Security includes anti-virus software (bundled into an Anti-Malware tool) and is free for Virgin Media broadband customers.

Block Spyware

Spyware (also known as Adware or Malware) can infect your system, monitoring what you do. You should install and use an anti-Spyware programme to clean this up regularly. Virgin Media Security includes anti-spyware software (bundled into an Anti-Malware tool) and is free for all Virgin Media broadband customers.

Monitor your kids' Internet use

Keep your computer somewhere where you can see what your kids are doing. Make sure you have parental control software and learn more about the risks to kids. Virgin Media Security includes Parental Controls, a tool that allows you to restrict, monitor and schedule access to the Internet and is free for all Virgin Media broadband customers.

Use a firewall

Broadband connections allow others to come and take over your computer if you don't use a firewall. A firewall can scan your connection to prevent threats from utilising vulnerabilities in your computer’s defences.

Virgin Media Security includes Firewall Booster to bolster the built-in Windows Firewall. Virgin Media Security is free to all Virgin Media broadband customers.

Use spam controls

Make sure you have spam controls on your email. Virgin Media have automatic spam filters on all emails sent to Virgin Media email addresses.

Be suspicious of scams

Many scams circulate over the Internet and are often a way of getting you to hand over your personal details and take your money.

Don't download files or open emails if you’re not familiar with the source

Be suspicious of all emails or downloads that people send you unless you know where they are from and they look genuine.

Keep your computer in good shape

Ensure your software is up to date, back up your data and upgrade your computer periodically.

Virgin Media Security: Identity+ is a premium upgrade to Virgin Media’s free security package and includes PC Cleaner, a PC tune-up service. You can read about Virgin Media Security: Identity+ features in the article: What exactly is Virgin Media Security?

Don't give out your personal information

Phishing' is an Internet phenomenon where a site or service pretends to be an established legitimate business in order to con people into giving away their private information. Virgin Media Security and Virgin Media Security: Identity+ offer a range of security features to help protect you from phishing scams and other online threats.

For information on how Virgin Media Security protects you automatically you can read the article: What does Virgin Media Security do automatically?