Written question asked by Lord Mann (Labour) on Monday, 19 October 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 21 October 2009. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Thursday, 29 October 2009 on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

Internet: Computer Viruses

Question: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Business, Innovation and Skills what steps the Government are taking to protect UK internet users from computer viruses and malicious software.

Answer: The Government acknowledge that viruses and malware are a significant problem for UK internet users. We have supported initiatives—in particular Get Safe Online that encourage users to adopt technological measures and good on-line behaviour to avoid becoming victims.This was a theme that was also covered in the Digital Britain Report. The report announced the creation of a Tripartite Initiative between Government, business and law enforcement to work together to tackle low level crime. It also announced new activity by the Office of Fair Trading to deal with scams conducted through the internet. Law enforcement work with banks and the internet industry to identify the sources of the problems, seeking to have such sites removed and to identify those responsible.

Secondary information