Have you seen the Microsoft 8 second demos adverts on TV recently? (you can see them here if you haven't!)

Some of these adverts are intended to highlight the security features in Internet Explorer.

Internet Explorer 8 recently came top in tests to see how the major browsers protect against social engineering based threats.

A social engineering based threat is dangerous software that attempts to install itself by manipulating people rather than infection by technical means.

This could be a website designed to look like your bank so that it can steal your login details which is known as phishing. Everytime you browse to a website using Internet Explorer 8, the SmartScreen feature checks the site and blocks it if it's been highlighted as a dangerous site.

 While this isn't a substitue for anti-virus software the fact your browser is looking out for you is a good thing!

You can see the full analysis of the tests on the NSS Labs website.

If you'd like us to examine your network for potential security threats please contact us for a no obligation assessment.