Is This Website Safe? How to Tell

Before you enter your personal information, bank details, or passwords on a website, it's important to check if it's safe. Here are simple ways to tell.

Look at the top of your internet browser (where you type the website address). You should see a padlock icon 🔒 next to the website address.

What it means: The padlock means the website is using encryption - this scrambles your information so other people can't see it.

If you see a padlock: ✅ The website is using secure encryption

If you don't see a padlock: ⚠️ Be careful - don't enter sensitive information like passwords or bank details

If you see a warning symbol: ❌ Don't use this website - it's not safe

Look at the website address (the URL) at the top of your browser. Safe websites start with "https://" (the "s" stands for "secure").

Safe: ✅ https://www.barclays.co.uk

Not safe: ❌ http://www.barclays.co.uk (no "s")

Note: Most modern browsers hide the "https://" part, but you'll still see the padlock icon.

Make sure the website address is correct. Scammers often create fake websites with addresses that look similar:

• ❌ "barclays-bank.com" (should be "barclays.co.uk")
• ❌ "amaz0n.co.uk" (should be "amazon.co.uk")
• ❌ "paypa1.com" (should be "paypal.com")

Look carefully - scammers use tricks like replacing letters with numbers or adding extra words.

Real company websites are professional and well-designed. Warning signs of a fake website:

• Poor design or layout
• Spelling mistakes
• Broken images or links
• Lots of pop-up adverts
• Asking for information they shouldn't need

The safest websites are ones you know and trust:

• Your bank's official website
• Well-known shops (like Amazon, Argos, John Lewis)
• Government websites (like gov.uk)
• Companies you've used before

If you're not sure: Type the website address yourself instead of clicking a link. This way you know you're going to the real website.

Real companies have contact information on their website:

• A phone number
• An email address
• A physical address
• A "Contact Us" page

If a website doesn't have any way to contact them, be suspicious.

If you're not sure about a website, search for reviews online. Type the website name and "reviews" into Google and see what other people say.

If lots of people say it's a scam or they've had problems, avoid it!

When shopping online, look for:

• ✅ The padlock icon
• ✅ "https://" in the address
• ✅ Clear returns policy
• ✅ Contact information
• ✅ Customer reviews
• ✅ Secure payment options (like PayPal or credit card)

Red flags:

• ❌ Prices that seem too good to be true
• ❌ Asking for payment by bank transfer only
• ❌ No returns policy
• ❌ No contact information

If you're not sure if a website is safe:

1. Don't enter any personal information
2. Don't click any links on the website
3. Close the website
4. If you need to use the service, find the company's official website by searching for them on Google
5. Or give us a call on 0808 123 2820 - we can help you check if a website is safe

Q: Is it safe to use public Wi-Fi?
A: Public Wi-Fi (like in cafes or libraries) can be less secure. Avoid entering passwords or bank details when using public Wi-Fi. If you need to, use your phone's mobile data instead.

Q: What if a website looks safe but I'm still worried?
A: Trust your instincts! If something feels wrong, don't use it. There's no harm in being cautious.

Q: Can my antivirus software tell me if a website is safe?
A: Some antivirus software can warn you about dangerous websites. Make sure yours is up to date - we provide antivirus software with our protection plan!

If you're worried about a website or want help checking if it's safe, we're here to help. Call us on 0808 123 2820 and we can:

• Help you check if a website is safe
• Show you how to spot warning signs
• Help secure your computer
• Give you advice on staying safe online

Remember - when in doubt, don't enter your information, and give us a call!