Government launches National E-Security Awareness Week

Announced by DCITA Minister Helen Coonan, www.staysmartonline.gov.au is one of a number of initiatives from the Australian Government, industry and community organisations to help raise awareness of Internet security issues.

The website provides a range of information on securing a computer, practice tips for online transactions and details on keeping young people safe plus useful resources including tips, quizzes and guides to help users “stay smart” online.

“We all need to think about security when we set up our computers and in our behaviour when online. National E-Security Awareness Week has activities and information about online security, for businesses and home users of all ages,” Coonan said in a statement.

Karl Hanmore, operations manager for security advisory Auscert, was positive about the government’s awareness campaign.

“The site looks good and people will use it. Any work in this area is good a thing,” he said. “The fact is it shows they are taking it seriously.”

Meanwhile, Andrew Antal, director of marketing at MessageLabs, pointed out that the continuing education of end-users on emerging security threats should be a priority. “SMB is one of the largest segments in the market and it’s not as in-tune [to security issues] as large enterprises, so it’s a good starting point,” he said.

The National E-Security Awareness Week runs from Monday 23 October – Friday 27 October. For further information log onto www.staysmartonline.gov.au.

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