The Internet may either be a useful tool or a very hostile environment, depending on the sites you visit and the actions you take.  Many people do not realize that sending and receiving e-mail occur over the Internet.  There are no guidelines or applications that can provide absolute security for Internet connected computers.  Hackers are very active and spend much time and plenty of resources developing ways to infiltrate computers.

     Most sources dealing with safe-surfing on the Internet state that you should only visit trusted sites.  Trusted sites being those that you are relatively certain will not inject any nasty applications, like viruses, Trojans, worms, spyware, ransom-ware, rootkits, ...  into your computer or otherwise place you at risk while you visit the site.  This risk could be the compromise of personal information, identity theft, or joining your computer to a botnet.

     Many of these sources are aimed toward corporate audiences who work for companies with defined security policies and these safe-surfing guidelines may not be practical for home users who interface with the Internet for entertainment as well as business and education purposes.

     Although there is no substitute for caution and common sense, the following guidelines are tailored to aid families in safe web surfing: