UK Government to Provide Virus Alerts

The British Government has joined the virus warning business with the launch of a new Web site, ITSafe. The site aims to protect citizens and businesses based in the UK from malware by offering free advice and alerts on potential threats.

The alerts will consist of plain-language information on how to deal with specific viruses and security risks. The information will be based on data provided by the National Infrastructure Security Co-ordination Center (NISCC).

"There is a clear need for easy-to-understand and simple independent advice for non-technically minded people who use computers either at home or at work," Home Office Minister Hazel Blears said in a statement.

According to statistics provided by the British Government, 52 percent of all UK households have access to the Internet.

"The purpose of this new Government service is to ensure computer users are aware of the risks involved and how to deal with them easily and effectively without causing alarm," said Blears.

To sign up for the service, all users will need to do is submit their e-mail address. For those who are often on the run, a mobile text message service is also available.