The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy and Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, launched National Cyber Security Awareness Week 2010 this week.

National Cyber Security Awareness Week aims to inform Australians about the importance of cyber security and highlights the simple steps people can take to protect their personal and financial information online.

"Australians are increasingly relying on the internet in their everyday lives, from banking and shopping to accessing news and keeping in touch with friends and family," Senator Conroy said.

"It is important Australians are able to use the internet in a secure and confident manner. The Awareness Week aims to educate and empower people with the information, confidence and practical tools they need to protect themselves online."

The theme for the week is 'Protect Yourself Online', and focuses on the growing number of devices Australians now use to access the internet.

"These days it is not just computers that go online. Phones, game consoles, TVs and even fridges and photo frames can be connected to the internet," Senator Conroy said.

"Australians need to recognise that wherever and whenever they go online, they must protect themselves."

Australians are advised to take six simple steps to improve their online security at home and at work:

• Install security software and update it regularly.
  
   
• Turn on automatic updates so that all your software receives the latest fixes.
  
   
• Get a stronger password and change it at least twice a year.
  
   
• Stop and think before you click on links or attachments.
  
   
• Stop and think before you share any personal or financial information - about yourself, your friends or family.
  
   
• Know what your children are doing online. Make sure they know how to stay safe and encourage them to report anything suspicious.

As part of National Cyber Security Awareness Week, the Minister also launched the ISP Code of Practice on cyber security. The Code has been developed by the Internet Industry Association, in partnership with the Australian Government.

"The Code of Practice provides a consistent approach to help ISPs inform, educate and protect their customers in relation to cyber security issues," Senator Conroy said.

Attorney-General, Robert McClelland, today also launched the Protecting Yourself Online – What Everyone Needs to Know booklet.

"The booklet is a comprehensive collection of cyber security and safety information and provides advice on the basic steps Australians need to take to stay secure online," Mr McClelland said.

"It also contains valuable advice for consumers on how they can secure their computer, be smart with their online finances and identities, and keep themselves and their family safe online."

"The advice is practical and helps to apply real world common sense to the online environment," Mr McClelland said.

"The booklet also includes details of where to go for more information on identity security, offensive content, scams and fraud as well as where they can report online problems or incidents."

"By following the advice in this new publication, Australians can minimise cyber security risks while enjoying the benefits of living, working and playing online," Mr McClelland said.

The Australian Government acknowledges the support of our partners who are participating this week and encourages everyone to take part in the activities and events on offer.

Information about National Cyber Security Awareness Week and the Protecting Yourself Online booklet is available on the Australian Government's Stay Smart Online website at www.staysmartonline.gov.au