Government warns of net dangers

[Talon]

Government warns of net dangers

The government is planning a major public awareness campaign on computer security and internet safety risks.

According to newsletter eGov Monitor the project could pull together the huge amount of information available on government websites.

The aim of the initiative is to increase awareness of issues such as computer viruses and hacking.

But a more joined-up approach is needed to get the message about safety across said eGov Monitor.

Many guides

"It is extremely wasteful to have dozens of websites duplicating information," said Ian Cuddy, the chief editor of eGov Monitor.

"It goes against the government's drive to provide a single point of access to information," he added.

Project Endurance, as the scheme is codenamed, has involved discussions with computer and internet industry figures and law enforcement agencies with a view to producing a joint information initiative.

It could prevent massive duplication of information which is currently happening because a handful of different government departments have responsibility for the internet and related issues.

Details of the project are currently being finalised. The aim is to provide general information about computer security issues such as viruses and hacking, rather than about net safety for children.

Radio ads

eGov Monitor has found at least 26 guides on staying safe online and computer security on various government and related websites.

There have been three separate campaigns on the topic of chatroom safety alone, launched at a total cost of £10.5 million.

During Parents Online week in October, the Home Office will be unveiling new radio and online adverts offering safety advice about surfing.

In the spring the government launched a revamped website aimed at amalgamating all government service information for citizens.

Directgov was a replacement for UK Online which had failed to draw the number of surfers hoped for.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/3659156.stm