While it can also be an amazing resource for instant information, and social networking sites such as MySpace, Facebook, and Friendster offer ways to make friends around the globe, the Web can be a dangerous place. That's why Comcast wants to educate consumers about safety precautions for you and your family when going online.

"As the Internet continues to be more mainstream every day, we are very committed to educating consumers about the increasing number of online threats that make them vulnerable on a number of levels," said Mitch Bowling, senior vice president and general manager of Comcast High-Speed Internet. "It is critical that people become aware of these threats and know that there are simple, convenient and safe ways for them to help protect their families online."

Look out for phishing scams
Phishing is when Internet scammers imitate legitimate companies in e-mails or Web sites to entice people to share their user names, passwords, account information, or credit card numbers. Many service providers have security updates available to their users. For example, Microsoft has recently created a security update for Internet Explorer that will help people avoid phishing scams. Comcast encourages customers to apply this patch if your computer has Internet Explorer installed. Visit http://www.microsoft.com for more information. Comcast High-Speed Internet customers can also download a free toolbar at http://www.comcast.net/security that will help protect against phishing, spyware and pop-ups.

Establish child safety and parental controls
Parents can use software to block the level of access when their children go online. They should also talk to their children about what they are doing online and with whom they are chatting.

Parents that are Comcast.net customers can access McAfee(R) Image Analysis or any of the parental control features by clicking the "parental controls" section on the main Security Center Web page where they will find many more parental control options.

Secure wireless networks
Wireless routers that are not secured are prime targets for people looking to access personal information or to download illegal content. Prevent others from stealing your Internet connection by password-protecting the wireless connection. Consult your hardware's instruction manual to learn how to enable the security features to secure your network and access point.

Check security levels
Stay protected by doing the following.

• Update security software and virus protection programs regularly to thwart hackers.
• Use secure passwords that are a complex blend of letters and numbers  (e.g. Gr8WTshrkB8).
• Make sure that children never give out personal information -- even  if the person on the other end of the Internet connection seems like a trustworthy source.

You can secure your personal information and avoid Internet scams. To learn more about the products Comcast offers to bolster Internet security, and other important tips, visit http://www.comcast.net/security.