6 tips for using only trusted websites

24 Aug 2022

Whether you’re browsing the internet or downloading information or software, can you tell a trusted source from a suspicious or unsafe website?

Using only trusted sites is a critical part of internet security. But it’s not always obvious which sites can be trusted, and which are best avoided. Here are six tips for using only trusted websites…

1. ONLY DOWNLOAD WITH TRUST

If you’re trying to access documents or photos from the internet, it’s absolutely essential to download these files from a trusted source. But how will you know if it’s a trusted source or not? Generally speaking, it’s safe to use the websites of major organisations or those you have a personal connection to – such as the police, government and council, as well as your bank or insurance company. Other websites can of course be trusted too, but it pays to exercise a little extra caution when the company or organisation is less known.

2. SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

It’s important to remember that even if you believe you’re using the website of a reputable organisation like your bank, there’s always a small chance you’ve searched or clicked your way to a fake website instead. To ensure you’re using the authentic site for that company, check the correct web address on any official correspondence or even phone them directly to confirm.  

Many fake websites can look incredibly convincing. In some cases the web address might be almost identical to the real thing with only a minor difference, such as a single letter, that can easily go unnoticed.

3. LOOK FOR THE PADLOCK

There are various ways to determine if a website is trustworthy or otherwise. One of the best indicators is that little padlock symbol you might have seen next to the web address in your browser. This tiny icon is more important than many people realise. How? It actually indicates whether the connection for a website you’re visiting comes with appropriate security measures.

You can find more info about the security certification by clicking on the padlock. However, if the symbol appears behind a red line or warning message, it means your browser has detected potential security issues. The padlock can also indicate that your website activity is private, so if your session includes entering a password or making a payment, be sure to take this seriously.

4. CHECK THE CONNECTION IS ENCRYPTED

Next, check whether ‘https://’ appears at the start of the web address. If it does, you can be relatively confident the website connection is encrypted, making it impossible for data sent to and from the website to be intercepted by any unwanted third parties including unscrupulous hackers. Note that some browsers only show a simplified address, so for these you will need to click or double-click on the address – https:// or http:// should then appear at the start of the web address.

5. FIND THE CONTACT PAGE

Another good idea is to check if the website has a genuine contact page. Sometimes there will be a link at the top of the page, other times it will appear at the bottom of the home page. But if you can’t see how to contact the organisation anywhere, alarm bells should be ringing about the legitimacy of this website. 

6. UPDATE DEVICE SOFTWARE

Last but not least, your device’s operating and browser software should always be set to update automatically. This provides up-to-date protection from your web browser and helps ensure the browser is armed with the latest information on malicious websites and undesirable programs. You can also receive alerts regarding dangerous sites.