Internet "phishing" rates are expected to soar this year, according to new research announced today.
The research is part of the "Make IT Secure" campaign, which is a two-week initiative that aims to increase awareness of issues like phishing, identity theft, and spyware among those on social networking sites such as Facebook, Myspace and Bebo.
The iReach 2008 IT security report said the average internet user is subject to approximately 298 phishing attempts every day and indicates that almost every third internet user has experienced some form of online threat in the past.
Phishing is a form of e-mail scam that attempts to extract personal information from a user.
Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Eamon Ryan said recent studies showed that less than 50 per cent of all Irish web users understand the term "phishing".
But he added: "It is important that these kinds of statistics don't deter people from using computers or surfing the internet as these are now invaluable tools for business, leisure, education and communication."
"While social networking is a very positive development for young people, it is a very new phenomenon and we are determined to ensure that parents are aware of the issues facing children who are on social networking sites," Mr Ryan said.
A booklet for parents whose children are engaged in social networking will be published, and a seminar will be held on February 22nd featuring John Carr, an expert on social networking, and Dr Rachel O'Connell, safety officer of social networking site Bebo.