You could be forgiven for wanting to avoid all contact with the internet.

Stories about viruses, spyware and phishing ­ where web users are tricked into giving personal details to impostor websites ­ are enough to make anyone think twice about venturing online.

Of course, you might have all manner of security software installed on your PC, but if the web browser isn’t secure then you’re at risk every time you visit a website.

Many people use Microsoft’s Internet Explorer, version 7, which was released last year as a free download. It’s also built into Windows Vista.

If you use Internet Explorer 7, then read on to find out how to stay safe online.