The tool is on the website of internet safety group Get Safe Online, which has worked with fraud prevention service Cifas. The score is calculated by an algorithm based on more than 40 data sources and reports on malicious websites. These reports come from law enforcement agencies, regulators and consumer brands to identify and verify the sites that users have accessed.
Users simply type in the address of the website they want to check here, and the results will appear within seconds. The tool checks whether that website has been reported for phishing or malware, whether any content has been blocked, and its SSL certificate to verify its security.
Tony Neate, CEO of Get Safe Online, said: “For over 15 years, Get Safe Online has provided internet safety advice and tips for individuals and small businesses so that we can all use the internet safely and with confidence. The internet is amazing, but as with many things, there are downsides to watch out for when using it: scams, scams, people trying to take advantage of you, and your personal information. The launch of Check a Website today is revolutionary and we are very excited to finally be able to offer individuals the opportunity to literally check a website before they use it.”
Fraudsters use fake or malicious websites, often masquerading as genuine websites, to lure people into sharing personal and financial information. The details can then be used to facilitate identity theft.
Both companies hope the tool will prevent thousands of people around the world from falling victim to unwanted online scams every year.
“Because you can quickly check if the website you’re visiting is legitimate, you can be safer online, reduce your exposure to illegal websites and have peace of mind knowing you’re defending yourself against cybercriminals,” says Cifas CEO Mike Haley.
Written by: Marijan Živković
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