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Online shopping may be the most useful feature to come out of the internet so far. After all, it&rsquo;s convenient, offers better prices and flexible payment options, and you don&rsquo;t have to get off the sofa to find great products.
However, for beginners, it can be challenging to find the right online shops while <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-spot-an-online-scam-age-uk">steering clear of scams</a>.
In this guide to getting started with online shopping, we&rsquo;ll cover the essentials, like how to:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="#choose" rel="follow">Choose the right vendor</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#staysafe" rel="follow">Stay safe while online shopping</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#find" rel="follow">Find the right items</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#additems" rel="follow">Add items to your basket</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#time" rel="follow">Ensure everything arrives on time</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#pay" rel="follow">Safely and securely pay for your items online</a>
</li>
</ul>
If any of that sounds confusing, don&rsquo;t worry &mdash; we&rsquo;ll explain on the way.
 
<h2>How to shop online: 6 steps to get started</h2>
Being able to shop online means you can shop at any time, at multiple stores around the world, and can receive almost any item you need right to your doorstep. All you need is a <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages">good broadband connection</a>, and to follow these steps:
<h3 id="choose">1. Choose a trustworthy online shop</h3>
Just like you wouldn&rsquo;t shop at a brick-and-mortar store with broken windows and missing stock, it&rsquo;s important to choose a secure online store as well. Safe websites often have a padlock in the browser bar, or when you click &lsquo;view site information&rsquo; in the top left of the bar.&nbsp;
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/nCJp3CDRaO0GGqYMZhvb" alt="The padlock in the browser shows a website has a secure connection." width="405" height="393">
To determine if you&rsquo;ll find quality goods, you should also look at the reviews. Don&rsquo;t just look at reviews on the store website, but use third parties like <a href="https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/communityfibre.co.uk">Trustpilot</a> to see experiences from real customers.
The sites below are known for their high product quality. Most also offer buyer protection for certain payments, so your money will be refunded if you don&rsquo;t receive your order:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/">John Lewis</a> &mdash; For high-quality products across homeware, fashion, and technology departments
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/">Amazon</a> &mdash; For almost any product, from food to clothes, books and electronics
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.marksandspencer.com/">Marks &amp; Spencer</a> &mdash; For clothing, food, or home goods
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.asos.com/">ASOS</a> &mdash; For clothing and shoes
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.currys.co.uk/">Currys</a> &mdash; For electronics and household appliances
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.boots.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoq-azrrQVcTEkOhITNhzeCEfPoWy6zbL3Lz5aDfd3kUwV58S_ln">Boots</a> &mdash; For anything you&rsquo;d usually buy at the pharmacy
</li>
</ul>
Depending on the vendor you choose, you may need to create an account on their site before making purchases. If that&rsquo;s the case, be sure to use a <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-password-security">strong password</a> and email address you can easily access.&nbsp;
<div align="center">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 42.5883%; height: 82.8403px; border-width: 1px; border-spacing: 2px; background-color: #f4f4f4;"><colgroup> <col style="width: 100%;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 82.8403px;">
<td style="text-align: center;">
Top tip: When shopping online, remember that returns and refunds are not always possible. It&rsquo;s also impossible to &lsquo;try before you buy&rsquo;, so always double-check any small print or sizing information to be sure you&rsquo;re making the right decision.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<h3 id="staysafe">2. Stay safe while you shop online</h3>
If you don&rsquo;t take steps to <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-avoid-online-scams">protect yourself online</a>, you can run into some nasty risks, such as:
<ul>
<li>
Identity theft
</li>
<li>
Lost money
</li>
<li>
Data breaches
</li>
<li>
Misplaced products that don&rsquo;t arrive
</li>
<li>
Low quality products you can&rsquo;t use
</li>
</ul>
To combat this, you should always install antivirus software such as <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> to <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-device-security">keep your devices safe</a> from malware and viruses. You should also:
<h4>Use a secure vendor</h4>
Aside from looking for the padlock on the browser bar, a simple way to tell if a website is secure is to look at the URL. If it&rsquo;s safe to use, the URL will start with &lsquo;https&rsquo; &mdash; the S stands for &lsquo;secure&rsquo;.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/3dCZ5xbIQImRlvQPWP3w" alt="https can be seen for the Community Fibre website address">
<h4>Always check the reviews</h4>
A quick Google search will usually tell you if an online shop is secure or not. Avoid trusting reviews on the website itself, as some fake stores will simply make up reviews and show these as if they are real.
Instead, look for reviews on trustworthy third-party sites, or check the reviews for individual items if you&rsquo;re using a marketplace like Amazon.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/zBgXVK7vSQOKmlrx6KA3" alt="A five-star review for Community Fibre on TrustPilot.">
(Source: <a href="https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/670ea03eb20f32e4d0e632f2">Trustpilot</a>)
If you&rsquo;re using a marketplace like <a href="https://www.ebay.co.uk/">Ebay</a> or <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/">Etsy</a>, you should also check the reviews for the seller you&rsquo;re considering, and if possible send them a message before you buy from them. This will help you decide if they are trustworthy or <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/press/uk-scamdemic-half-of-over-60s-put-off-surfing-the-web-due-to-rise-in-internet-scams">a potential scammer</a>.&nbsp;
<h4>Use a trustworthy payment service</h4>
When you use a trustworthy payment service, it adds an extra layer of protection between you and any vendor who may not be genuine.
For example, <a href="https://www.paypal.com/uk/webapps/mpp/paypal-safety-and-security">PayPal offers buyer protection</a> in the event that you never receive the item you ordered. Ebay, Etsy and Amazon are also known for their speedy customer service and refunds in the rare case that an order doesn&rsquo;t arrive or you receive the wrong item.
<h3 id="find">3. Search for the right items</h3>
Most websites make it easy to find what you&rsquo;re looking for, with a search bar and filters for sizes, colour, and sorting by price.
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/MRbrMUJgQOeiNPiVFtFA" alt="Product filters and details which can be used when shopping online">
(Source: <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/">Amazon</a>)
The product description will typically include dimensions and sizing information, as well as describing the material and care instructions so you can avoid any unpleasant surprises when your product arrives. It&rsquo;s also worth checking the returns policy before you make any decisions, just in case there are any mistakes in the product description, or if the product isn&rsquo;t as you expected.
Finally, always check the product reviews to see if other people find the product to be satisfactory &mdash; or if they advise steering clear.
<h3 id="additems">4. Add items to your cart or basket</h3>
Once you&rsquo;ve decided what item is best, you&rsquo;ll need to select the colour, size, and quantity you&rsquo;ll need. Sometimes you can save money by subscribing to receive products regularly.&nbsp;
Once you&rsquo;re sure you&rsquo;ve selected the right item, simply add it to your basket and you&rsquo;re 80% there.&nbsp;
<div align="center">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 42.5883%; height: 73.0695px; border-width: 1px; border-spacing: 2px; background-color: #f4f4f4;"><colgroup> <col style="width: 100.051%;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 73.0695px;">
<td style="text-align: center;">
Top tip: If you&rsquo;re not ready to buy the product just yet, you can bookmark the page. If you&rsquo;re extra-organised, most sites offer an option to add the item to a shopping or wish list, making it easy to find your favourites again.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<h3 id="time">5. Select your shipping times and preferences</h3>
With your items in your cart, it&rsquo;s time to check out. You&rsquo;ll need to add your shipping address and shipping method, as well as review your order details.
If you need your item by a certain date, it&rsquo;s worth checking when it&rsquo;s due to arrive. Standard shipping typically takes five days or more, while many sites offer expedited shipping within one to two business days, usually for an extra charge.
You&rsquo;ll typically receive communication when your order:
<ul>
<li>
Is confirmed and being prepared by the shop
</li>
<li>
Ships and is on its way to you
</li>
<li>
Is due to arrive
</li>
</ul>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 42.5883%; height: 73.0695px; border-width: 1px; border-spacing: 2px; background-color: #f4f4f4;"><colgroup> <col style="width: 100.051%;"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 73.0695px;">
<td style="text-align: center;">
Top tip: Make sure delivery is scheduled for a date and time when you&rsquo;ll be in the house. This will avoid any delays. Don&rsquo;t worry if you make a mistake &mdash; some websites ensure that orders can be tracked or changed if you catch them quickly after placing your order, while others require you to cancel your order and re-do it.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<h3 id="pay">6. Pay for your items online</h3>
<img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/E0LAWX4SHyVgXRoiaU05" alt="PayPal app on a mobile device." width="392" height="294" style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">
There are several ways to pay for your items online:
<ul>
<li>
Credit/debit cards &mdash; These are the most common form of payment for online purchases, as they offer a good mix of convenience and security.
</li>
<li>
PayPal &mdash; This digital wallet enables you to safely store your payment information and buy items without giving your card information directly to a retailer.
</li>
<li>
Gift cards &mdash; Many online retailers accept gift cards as a form of payment, but these are often subject to certain rules and qualifications before you can use them.
</li>
</ul>
<div align="center">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 42.5883%; height: 97.0695px; border-width: 1px; border-spacing: 2px; background-color: #f4f4f4;"><colgroup><col style="width: 100.051%;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 97.0695px;">
<td style="text-align: center;">
Top tip: No matter which payment method you choose, make sure you check what buyer protections are in place. If you&rsquo;ve already made a payment and aren&rsquo;t sure if the seller was safe, keep an eye out for any suspicious or unexpected charges to your account, and report any unauthorised activity to your bank.
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
 
<h2>The benefits of online shopping</h2>
Why should you choose online shopping over visiting typical brick-and-mortar stores in person? For some, it&rsquo;s a case of not being able to leave the house, or not having time to visit stores within their normal opening hours. Most people choose online shopping for the following reasons:
<ul>
<li>
It&rsquo;s convenient &mdash; You don&rsquo;t need to leave your house, commute to the nearest shop, or deal with long lines and frustrating crowds.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
It offers a wide product selection and easy comparisons &mdash; You can easily find good deals on exactly the item you&rsquo;re looking for. If you&rsquo;re not sure, you can compare prices and reviews for similar products. This also makes it great for finding suitable gifts on any occasion.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
There is no closing time &mdash; Most online stores offer 24/7 availability, so you can browse early in the morning or late into the night. Online shopping will always fit your schedule.
</li>
<li>
It&rsquo;s fast &mdash; you can find high-quality items and checkout in minutes. When you factor in at-home and next-day delivery options, things get even quicker.
</li>
<li>
You&rsquo;re usually guaranteed quality &mdash; If you check reviews, select well-rated brands, and shop at well-known websites, you&rsquo;ll be more likely to choose a product you&rsquo;ll enjoy for years to come.
</li>
<li>
It&rsquo;s good for your budget &mdash; It&rsquo;s easy to compare prices, sort products by price (low to high) and filter your searches to find the best discounts or sales.
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2>Shop securely online with Community Fibre</h2>
Ready to get started shopping online? To do so safely, you&rsquo;ll need a secure broadband connection and best-in-class antivirus software.
That&rsquo;s why we offer a bundle of full-fibre broadband with <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a>. This offers bank-grade encryption to protect your data and <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-protect-your-digital-privacy">digital privacy</a> from cybercriminals on both home and public WiFi, as well as download/upload speeds of <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/3-gigafast">up to 3 Gbps</a> &mdash; more than fast enough for most online shops.
<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#postcode-search-modal">Check availability</a> in London, Surrey, and Sussex.

Discover the essentials of how to shop online for beginners. Learn how to shop with confidence and find the best vendors & items with our top tips.

Online Shopping for Beginners: 6 Steps to Get Started

Shopping online is a convenient way to access to a wider variety of products. Explore our top 6 tips to get the most out of online shopping while staying safe.

Online shopping for beginners: six steps to get started

People use the internet for everything &mdash; from shopping to dating, it&rsquo;s an integral part of modern life &mdash; but nobody ever expects to be scammed online.
Online scams come in many forms, but their end goal is typically to trick you into giving away personal information or money.
In this guide, we&rsquo;ll run through the essentials of how to avoid being scammed online:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="#worry" rel="follow">Should I worry about online scams?</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#types" rel="follow">Types of online scams</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#tips" rel="follow">Tips and tricks to spot and avoid scams</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#whattodo" rel="follow">What to do if you&rsquo;re scammed online</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#faqs" rel="follow">FAQs</a>
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2 id="worry">Should I worry about online scams?</h2>
Scams impact everyone, and falling victim to this crime doesn&rsquo;t make you gullible or weak-willed. <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/money/2024/feb/19/amount-of-in-uk-more-than-doubled-to-23bn-in-2023-report-finds#:~:text=The%20amount%20of%20fraud%20committed,intelligence%20to%20rip%20off%20consumers.">Online scams cost &pound;2.3 billion</a> in 2023 alone, marking one of the most significant years for scammers in UK history.
Part of the problem is how widespread online scams have become recently, taking place on every corner of the internet, such as:
<ul>
<li>
Via emails
</li>
<li>
On social media (like Instagram, X, or Facebook)
</li>
<li>
Through fake websites
</li>
<li>
Via messaging apps (like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger)
</li>
</ul>
The fallout of these scams can be life-changing, from identity theft to financial loss.
 
<h2 id="types">How to avoid being scammed online: understanding types of online scams</h2>
Scammers reach out in many ways, but these are the most common:
<h3>Phishing</h3>
Phishing typically occurs over email. Attackers claim to be real organisations, such as a bank, postal service, or subscription, and contact you asking for information they can use to resolve a problem. For example:
<ul>
<li>
&ldquo;Your subscription is about to run out&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;Your card is about to expire&rdquo;
</li>
<li>
&ldquo;Click this link to unlock your account&rdquo;
</li>
</ul>
For example, a <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-spot-an-online-scam-age-uk">scam email</a> may claim to be from your bank, asking for account details that the scammer can use to steal money.&nbsp;
<h3>Spear phishing</h3>
More targeted attacks are known as &lsquo;spear phishing&rsquo;, where cybercriminals personalise their emails with more specific information, such as your name. They may also research your social circle beforehand and create false email addresses, approaching you as if they are a close contact.
<h3>Tech support scams</h3>
Tech support scammers often claim your device is infected with a virus, or your data is unsecure, and offer &lsquo;support&rsquo; &mdash; for a fee.
Always be wary of unsolicited calls from support teams and pop-up antivirus messages, especially if you do not know the software provider claiming to contact you.
Tech support scams often include:
<ul>
<li>
Asking for personal information to unlock your account
</li>
<li>
Asking for access to your files
</li>
<li>
Asking you to run a scan on your computer
</li>
</ul>
If you&rsquo;re worried about a technical issue or virus, call your online security provider directly, using the number listed on their website.
<h3>Online shopping scams</h3>
Cybercriminals can create fake websites or product listings to trick you into buying products that don&rsquo;t exist. They may use stolen logos or photos, purchase official-looking domain names, or otherwise pose as trustworthy businesses.
There are a few things to look out for to protect yourself from online scams while shopping:
<ul>
<li>
Prices that are unbelievably low
</li>
<li>
Double-check the identity of the account holder when making a payment
</li>
<li>
Check the website has a privacy policy or terms and conditions
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Investment/cryptocurrency scams</h3>
Investment and cryptocurrency scams are the definition of &lsquo;too good to be true&rsquo;. They often involve the scammer approaching you with promises of high returns on your investment or cryptocurrencies that don&rsquo;t exist, or aren&rsquo;t worth the money. They may be phishing sites posing as legitimate investment platforms, fake initial coin offerings, or ponzi schemes.
<ul>
<li>
Research any company or cryptocurrency before making an investment
</li>
<li>
Never take investment guidance from the company who contacted you directly, and seek independent advice instead
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Online dating and romance scams</h3>
Good relationships are built on trust, which makes romance scams especially sinister. Cybercriminals build a relationship slowly over time, gaining your trust before asking for money.
These red flags signal an online dating scam:
<ul>
<li>
Asking for money for emergencies, debts, travel, or medical bills
</li>
<li>
Never meeting in person or over video chat
</li>
<li>
Using images that appear elsewhere online with a quick search
</li>
<li>
Moving quickly from their initial message to an &lsquo;I love you&rsquo; or &lsquo;I&rsquo;m in big trouble&hellip;&rsquo;
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2 id="tips">How to know if you've been scammed online: tips and tricks</h2>
To keep yourself safe online, keep these tips in mind:
<ol>
<li>
Verify email senders, random phone calls, and websites &mdash; look out for generic greetings, poor grammar and spelling mistakes, and mismatched URLs. Check any information against official channels before clicking links, especially before you send money.
</li>
<li>
Be sceptical of unsolicited communications &mdash; never download attachments from unknown sources or click strange links in an email. Likewise, don&rsquo;t share sensitive information like passwords or bank details unless you are sure the recipient is authentic.
</li>
<li>
Use strong passwords &mdash; Use a unique password for every platform with a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Add an extra layer of <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-password-security">password security</a> with two-factor authentication.
</li>
<li>
Keep software/devices up to date &mdash; Update your operating systems, apps, and <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">antivirus software</a> to ensure you&rsquo;re protected online. Good <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-device-security">device security</a> is your frontline support against scams.
</li>
<li>
Be careful when paying/transferring money online &mdash; Some scammers will ask you to send money, so avoid direct bank transfers. Instead, use services offering buyer protection, such as PayPal or credit cards.
</li>
<li>
Keep educating yourself about scams &mdash; Banks often publish updated advice on the latest scams and threats. You can read these from your own personal bank to stay up-to-date on the newest techniques scammers use.
</li>
<li>
Trust your gut&nbsp;&mdash; when it comes to online scams, the old cliches are usually right: if something is too good to be true, it usually is. Pay attention to your instincts, and take time to double-check the details if you have doubts.
</li>
</ol>
 
<h2 id="whattodo">What to do if you've been scammed online</h2>
Don&rsquo;t worry if you fall for a scam &mdash; it happens to around <a href="https://www.cifas.org.uk/newsroom/stateofscams">10% of people in Britain</a>, so you aren&rsquo;t alone. Follow these steps to help recover:
<ol>
<li>
Contact your bank to report the fraud and freeze your accounts
</li>
<li>
Freeze your card instantly via your banking app
</li>
<li>
Change your passwords on any accounts that may be compromised
</li>
<li>
Report the scam to the proper authorities
</li>
<li>
Report it to the platform, e.g. your email provider
</li>
</ol>
Criminals use increasingly sophisticated methods to lure people in and make offers that can be hard to refuse, so don&rsquo;t feel foolish if you fall for fraud.
 
<h2 id="faqs">FAQs about avoiding online scams</h2>
<hr>
<h3>How can I recognise a phishing email?&nbsp;</h3>
Several factors can mean an email is a phishing scam:
<ul>
<li>
A generic greeting like &lsquo;Hello&rsquo;
</li>
<li>
Grammar and spelling errors
</li>
<li>
A false sense of urgency or urging you to make a payment immediately
</li>
<li>
A suspicious sender address or links to untrustworthy sites
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h3>What should I do if I receive a suspicious message?</h3>
Do not respond to any suspicious emails or other communications. Never give your information to a source you have not verified, and avoid clicking any links or downloading any files. Instead, report the message to the platform you are using and move on.
<hr>
<h3>What are some common online scam red flags?</h3>
Red flags for scams can take many forms, such as:
<ul>
<li>
Unbelievably good deals
</li>
<li>
Spelling and grammar mistakes
</li>
<li>
Asking you to make payments on the same day
</li>
<li>
Pressuring you to respond right away
</li>
<li>
Asking for personal information or money
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h3>Will I get my money back after a scam?</h3>
It depends on the method of payment. The faster you report the scam, the more likely you can avoid or recuperate losses. In some cases, your card provider can ask the seller&rsquo;s bank to refund the money.
<hr>
 
<h2>Avoiding online scams explained</h2>
Following these tips will help you to stay safe from online scams and enjoy the internet without falling victim to fraud. The internet is a wonderful place to shop and handle your finances, but be aware of online scams and keep your security up-to-date.
We offer a range of <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/digital-skills">free digital skills resources and courses</a> for you to explore safely. Likewise, you can boost your online security with our <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> bundle, which can keep you and your household protected online while you enjoy our <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages" rel="follow">100% full fibre network.</a>
<h id="types"></h>

The internet is key to friendships, shopping & managing your finances. All this data means you’ll run into scams along the way- here’s how to prevent them.

How to Avoid & Prevent Online Scams: Our Top 7 Tips

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How to avoid online scams and scammers

The footprints you leave on the internet are precious, from personal photos stored on the cloud to financial information and online banking details that fund your life. If that data is lost or stolen, it can&rsquo;t be easily replaced.
Password security is the first step in protecting your personal data from being compromised, along with additional <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-device-security" rel="follow">device security measures</a>, such as two-factor authentication. You can also use antivirus software such as <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> which encrypts your personal information with a VPN.
We&rsquo;ll cover how to stay safe online with proper password security in this guide, as well as tips and tricks you can try today.
 
<h2>What is password security? Why password security and protection are important</h2>
<a href="https://www.weforum.org/press/2020/01/forgotten-your-password-not-having-one-will-make-you-safer-says-world-economic-forum/#:~:text=Geneva%2C%20Switzerland%2C%2021%20January%202020,these%20attacks%20are%20password%2Drelated.">80% of all cybercrime</a> happens as a result of not following best practices for passwords. Without strong passwords, cybercriminals can easily access your personal information, hack into your accounts, and ultimately steal your identity.
The consequences can be life-changing, such as:
<ul>
<li>
Financial loss
</li>
<li>
Personal data loss
</li>
<li>
Data leaks and exposure
</li>
<li>
Your personal accounts can become compromised or inaccessible
</li>
</ul>
If your professional or organisational devices aren&rsquo;t secure, criminals can also share sensitive information with competing companies or hold data for ransom.
 
<h2>Tips and best practices for password security</h2>
Luckily, creating and managing secure passwords has never been easier. Let&rsquo;s take a look at the five ways to enhance your password security:
<h3>1. Create a strong password</h3>
You&rsquo;ve probably heard it before: your password should include a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to be secure. That&rsquo;s true, but there&rsquo;s a little more to it. For instance:
<ul>
<li>
Your password should not be a word that&rsquo;s easy to guess &mdash; a random mix of letters, numbers and symbols is safest
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows/create-and-use-strong-passwords-c5cebb49-8c53-4f5e-2bc4-fe357ca048eb">12-14 characters</a> or more is generally considered the best length for passwords.&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t include any personal information, like your hometown or childhood pet&rsquo;s name
</li>
<li>
Avoid simple passwords like &lsquo;password&rsquo; or &lsquo;password123&rsquo; &mdash; ideally your password should be impossible to guess
</li>
</ul>
<h3>2. Use unique passwords for every account</h3>
It&rsquo;s convenient to use the same password for your Facebook, email, Instagram, workplace, and everything else &mdash; but that comes with some danger, too.
If a cybercriminal guesses your password for one account, they can access everything else. That&rsquo;s why we recommend using a unique password for every account and device you use regularly.
Top tip: use a password manager like <a href="https://www.lastpass.com/">LastPass</a> to create and store your passwords.
<h3>3. Enable two-factor authentication where possible</h3>
Say someone guesses your password. They can access your account, right? Not if you use two-factor authentication (2FA)!&nbsp;
Essentially, 2FA means that once you&rsquo;ve input the right password, you&rsquo;ll need to verify your login using your email address, an authenticator app, or through a text message.
Top tip: Use two-factor authentication on any account you can, especially where you&rsquo;re storing sensitive information (think online banking and personal email accounts).
<h3>4. Update your passwords regularly</h3>
If you ever used school or university computers, you were probably forced to change your password every three to six months. Well, this rule should be another thing you take from your education.
Consistent password changes make it much harder for attackers to access your account, which is why this is common practice with many enterprise-level businesses and larger educational organisations.
Top tip: Set reminders to change your passwords every few months, and update your password management software when you do.
<h3>5. Be vigilant about security breaches</h3>
Stay up-to-date on any data breaches involving companies you use regularly, especially your bank or email platforms.
Your computer or phone may also include built-in features that alert you if your passwords are compromised.
Top tip: Services like <a href="https://www.upguard.com/">UpGuard</a> can help teams to manage security risks online, and notify you of any security breaches as well.
 
<h2>What not to do with your passwords</h2>
We&rsquo;ve covered what you should do to enhance your password security, but what are the don&rsquo;ts of keeping your accounts secure?&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t share passwords &mdash; Even sharing passwords with trusted people who claim to be from reputable organisations (like your bank) can lead to unauthorised access and theft.
</li>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t record passwords on a document on your computer &mdash; If cybercriminals access that particular file, they can easily &lsquo;break in&rsquo; to the rest of your online presence.
</li>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t include any personal information in your passwords &mdash; that includes your birthday, middle name, phone number, or anything that someone who personally knows you may be able to guess.
</li>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t use the same password for multiple accounts &mdash; As we mentioned, this can lead to multiple breached accounts if attackers gain access.
</li>
</ul>
Never ignore security warnings &mdash; Take action when your device or software needs to update, or if you receive any notifications that your account may be compromised. Check that these notifications come from a legitimate source before you click any links or buttons.
 
<h2>FAQs about password security</h2>
<hr>
<h3>What makes a strong password?</h3>
Strong passwords are unique for every account you use, and include a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. They should be randomly-generated and not a word you can easily guess or find in a dictionary.
<hr>
<h3>How often should you change your password?</h3>
According to <a href="https://uk.norton.com/blog/how-to/how-to-secure-your-passwords#:~:text=Password%20Updates%20%26%20Management,on%20more%20than%20one%20account.">Norton&trade;</a>, online banking passwords should change every month or so. For other accounts, like your computer or Facebook login, you can change your password once every three months.
<hr>
<h3>Are password managers safe?</h3>
Generally, yes. Password managers encourage you to follow best practices for security, keep your passwords encrypted, and most even suggest secure passwords whenever you create a new account.
<hr>
 
<h2>What should I do if my password is hacked?</h2>
If you fall victim to a data breach, follow these steps:
<ol>
<li>
Change your passwords on any accounts that might be affected
</li>
<li>
Report the breach to the relevant organisation as soon as possible &mdash; e.g. let your bank know if your details have been compromised
</li>
<li>
Monitor your activity on affected accounts
</li>
<li>
Set up two-factor authentication and implement a password manager like NordPass or LastPass to prevent this from happening again
</li>
</ol>
 
<h2>How safe is my password, really?&nbsp;</h2>
No single&nbsp; action will keep your passwords safe, but following the practices above will help safeguard your accounts from cybercrime.&nbsp;
<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages">Community Fibre broadband packages</a> come with top-tier customer service, and we&rsquo;re contactable from <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#:~:text=Call%20us%20on%200800%20082,bank%20holidays%2C%209am%20%2D%207pm.">Monday to Friday 9am - 7pm</a> if you experience any online security concerns or technical issues.&nbsp;
You can also <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">bundle your broadband with Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> to shield your personal information with bank-grade encryption via our Secure VPN.&nbsp;
To learn more about how we keep our online communities safe and bridge the digital divide, <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-community-fibre-is-helping-to-bridge-the-digital-poverty-gap">discover our action to overcome digital poverty</a>.
<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#postcode-search-modal">Check your postcode today</a> and see if Community Fibre is available in your area.

What is password security? We take you through what it means to have a strong password, and provide some helpful tips for protection online. Learn more.

What is Password Security? The Importance of Protection

Passwords are easy to forget, so we often fall into bad habits which leave us open to attacks. Learn how to improve your password security and protect your personal data.

Understanding password security and password protection

Device security, also known as cybersecurity, is the practice of protecting devices from threats like data breaches, malicious software, and unauthorised access.
Requirements vary from device to device, so whether you&rsquo;re using a mobile phone, laptop, PC, or tablet, you will need to consider different security options to protect your device &mdash; and your data. This protection comes in the form of strong authentication, restricted network access, and secure password management.
Where should you start? We&rsquo;ll take you through how to secure a device, and <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/tips-to-stay-safe-online" rel="follow">top tips to stay safe online</a>.
 
<h2>What are the consequences of poor device security?</h2>
In a worst-case scenario where your devices are left totally unprotected, you may suffer from financial losses, identity theft, and unauthorised access to personal data.
In corporate settings, poor device security can also manifest through the loss of sensitive company information, data breaches, and expensive recovery efforts.
<h3>Taking device security seriously</h3>
Cybersecurity threats are always on the horizon when you browse online, with ransomware attacks in the UK <a href="https://www.twenty-four.it/services/cyber-security-services/cyber-crime-prevention/cybercrime-statistics-uk/#:~:text=The%20average%20cost%20of%20a,of%20these%20types%20of%20attacks.">increasing by 70%</a> in 2020 alone. Device security is essential to protect both personal and business data from cyber threats and attacks.
 
<h2>Types of device security</h2>
There are several types of device security you&rsquo;ll need to cover to stay safe:
<h3>1. Antivirus/antimalware software</h3>
Antimalware tools can scan for &mdash; and remove &mdash; files that would otherwise harm your device or steal your personal data.
For example, if you install <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium antivirus software</a> on your device, it runs in the background and keeps you protected online. If you accidentally download a file that may be infected with a virus or malware, Norton will notify you before any harm can be done.
<h3>2. Firewalls</h3>
A firewall acts as a barrier between your computer and potential threats online. It will inspect any user&rsquo;s IP address and port numbers before they can access your network. This means unauthorised users can&rsquo;t access private networks unless you specifically allow them.
<h3>3. Encryption</h3>
<a href="https://cloud.google.com/learn/what-is-encryption">Encryption</a> protects your information using mathematical models. Effectively, it converts your data into unreadable code that criminals cannot easily access. It&rsquo;s especially useful when documents are in-transit or hosted online, such as on the cloud.
This way, if documents are stolen or lost, the encrypted data is still safe and cannot be used for malicious purposes.
<h3>4. Two-factor authentication</h3>
Two-factor authentication (also known as 2FA) gives you an extra layer of protection by requiring two forms of verification before granting access to your device, account, or data.
For example, you might use a password to log into a social media account, but with 2FA you might need to provide a verification code from text or email, or provide a fingerprint to access your account. Even if scammers get hold of your password, they still can&rsquo;t access your data without the second stage of authentication.
<h3>5. Device updates</h3>
While not everyone likes the time it takes to update their device, it&rsquo;s an important part of your device security. Updates can:
<ul>
<li>
Make sure you always have the latest security protections installed
</li>
<li>
Add new security features to make you less vulnerable to malware, ransomware and viruses
</li>
<li>
Update or &lsquo;patch&rsquo; any flaws from the previous version, leaving you less vulnerable overall
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2>Essential tips and best practices for device security</h2>
As we mentioned, device security looks different depending on the device you use. Here are some best practices to make sure your whole household is covered:
<h3>Mobile devices (Android/iOS)</h3>
What is the best way to secure a mobile device? Mobile phones and tablets can be protected in several ways, such as following best practices for <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-password-security" rel="follow">password security</a>. Other ways include:
<ul>
<li>
Installing security and antivirus apps
</li>
<li>
Install mobile device management software to track the location of any device and lock or wipe sensitive data remotely
</li>
<li>
Always use a VPN when logging into unsecured public WiFi networks
</li>
<li>
Update your device and apps when needed to keep your security up-to-date
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Windows and macOS laptops</h3>
Device security for laptops involves creating &lsquo;safety habits&rsquo; that keep things running smoothly.
<ul>
<li>
Encrypt your harddrive/disk with a software like <a href="https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security/operating-system-security/data-protection/bitlocker/">BitLocker</a> for Windows or <a href="https://support.apple.com/en-ie/guide/mac-help/flvlt001/mac">FileVault</a> for macOS
</li>
<li>
Backup your data using a cloud service - this means you have access to precious files even in the event of a cyberattack
</li>
<li>
Enable built-in firewalls and other security settings, such as Windows Defender
</li>
<li>
Keep your laptop, operating system, and all relevant apps updated
</li>
<li>
Install anti-virus software like&nbsp;<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> to enable real-time protection
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Internet of Things (IoT) devices</h3>
Devices that use AI or machine learning can be classified as &lsquo;IoT&rsquo; hardware. These modern devices still need to be protected, as they connect to the internet in order to perform their core functions.
In fact, many IoT devices are not built with strong security features, so following these steps is especially important:
<ul>
<li>
Update the software regularly for protection against the latest threats
</li>
<li>
Avoid using the same password across all your devices. Instead, use different, strong passwords for each&nbsp;
</li>
<li>
Consider using a separate network for IoT devices to limit an attacker's access if they do manage to infiltrate the system
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2>Understanding the importance of good device security</h2>
Following the steps above will help keep your personal and business information safe from cyber attacks, and data breaches. Basically, practising good device security will make you less open to cybercrimes like fraud and extortion.
 
<h2>FAQs about device security</h2>
<hr>
<h3>&lt;H3&gt; What is the best way to secure my mobile device?</h3>
There is no single way to protect your mobile device from those with malicious intent. Instead, you should follow these best practices:
<ul>
<li>
Use strong lock screen security
</li>
<li>
Avoid using public WiFi
</li>
<li>
Use an antivirus app
</li>
<li>
Use a password manager
</li>
<li>
Ensure your <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-set-up-a-secure-home-network" rel="follow">home network</a> is set up securely
</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h3>How can I ensure my computer is protected from viruses?</h3>
There are five essential steps to protect our computer from viruses:
<ol>
<li>
Install antivirus and antispyware software, such as <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a>
</li>
<li>
Enable firewall protection
</li>
<li>
Use strong and diverse passwords
</li>
<li>
Update your software regularly
</li>
<li>
Don&rsquo;t click links from unverified sources
</li>
</ol>
<hr>
<h3>What should I do if my device is lost or stolen?</h3>
Hopefully you followed the steps we covered in this article, so you can:
<ul>
<li>
Lock your device remotely
</li>
<li>
Change your passwords
</li>
<li>
Track your phone&rsquo;s location
</li>
</ul>
Otherwise, you should monitor your account activity and file a police report as soon as possible.
<hr>
<h3>Is it safe to use public WiFi?</h3>
Public WiFi is not always safe. If you connect to an unsecure network, attackers can steal your passwords and personal information, as well as infect your device with malware. Never connect to public WiFi without using a VPN and antivirus software.
<hr>
 
<h2>Take action to protect your devices</h2>
The internet is a life-changing invention, for better and worse, depending on how you use it. The more precautions you can take, the better to protect your data.&nbsp;
Our <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages">full fibre packages</a> provide a fast and secure connection throughout London, perfect for maintaining high levels of device security.&nbsp;
We don&rsquo;t stop at providing broadband, either &mdash; Community Fibre is also working to <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-community-fibre-is-helping-to-bridge-the-digital-poverty-gap">bridge the digital poverty gap</a>. We educate and assist you with device security concerns and offer technical support so you can use the internet safely and effectively.&nbsp;
<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#postcode-search-modal">Check if Community Fibre is available</a> in your area today.

What is device security? We cover five of the best methods to stay safe online no matter what device you use. Learn how to make your devices more secure.

What is Device Security? 5 Methods to Stay Safe

It's important to ensure all your devices are secured when using the internet, as just one weak device can leave your vulnerable. Learn how to stay safe across phones, laptops, computers, and other devices.

What is device security and how can I make it better?

The internet is integral to modern life but it also comes with some challenges and risks.&nbsp;
Some of these risks such as identity theft, phishing scams, malware, and lack of privacy can be quite damaging when things go wrong. This means it&rsquo;s extra important to make sure you know what to look out for when using the internet, to stay as safe as possible while online.
In this guide, we&rsquo;ll give you a rundown of how to implement simple safety practices to protect your personal information and avoid malicious activity on the internet.
Jump to:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="#tips" rel="follow">15 essential online safety tips</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#safetypitfalls" rel="follow">Common online safety pitfalls to avoid</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#kidsonlinesafety" rel="follow">How to stay safe online for kids</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="#onlinesafety" rel="follow">Embracing online safety</a>
</li>
</ul>
 
<h2 id="tips">15 essential online safety tips</h2>
With technology constantly evolving, staying safe online isn&rsquo;t always an easy task if you aren&rsquo;t sure what to look out for. That&rsquo;s why we&rsquo;ve compiled a list of 15 essential tips to help adults and children alike stay safe online.
<h3>1. Always use strong and unique passwords</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Create complex passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols &mdash; remember to always use different passwords for every account.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Prevents unauthorised access to your accounts by making it difficult for hackers to guess or crack your password.
<h3>2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Activate 2FA on your accounts where available, which requires a second form of verification beyond your password.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that even if your password is compromised, access is still restricted.
<h3>3. Be aware of phishing scams</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Learn <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-to-spot-an-online-scam-age-uk" rel="follow">how to spot phishing emails</a> by looking for suspicious email addresses or social media accounts, poor grammar, and unsolicited attachments or links.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Protects against attempts to steal personal information by helping you spot, contain or report a scam email/message.
<h3>4. Keep your software up to date with the latest patches</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Regularly update your operating system, browser, and apps to the latest versions.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Ensures you have the latest security patches and fixes for known vulnerabilities.
<h3>5. Use antivirus software</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Install a reputable antivirus and/or anti-malware program such as <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton 360 Premium</a> and keep them updated.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Detects and removes malicious software that can compromise your system and data before it takes effect.
<h3>6. Avoid public WiFi</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Don&rsquo;t access online banking or make online purchases over public WiFi &mdash; use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) if you need to.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Prevents data interception and unauthorised access to your personal information over unsecured networks.
<h3>7. Back up your data regularly</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Use cloud storage or external hard drives to back up important files and data.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Ensures you have access to your data even if your device is lost, stolen, or compromised.
8. Don&rsquo;t share personal information online
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Be cautious about sharing personal details on social media and other online platforms.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Reduces the risk of identity theft and other privacy invasions by minimising the amount of information that&rsquo;s available.
<h3>9. Review privacy settings</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Regularly check and adjust the privacy settings on your social media accounts and other online services.
</li>
<li>
What it does: Controls who can see your information and reduces exposure to potential threats.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>10. Always use secure websites</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Ensure the websites you visit use HTTPS rather than HTTP in their URL, especially when entering sensitive information. This will look like "https://www." in the browser bar.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Encrypts data transmitted between&nbsp;your browser and the website, protecting it from interception.
<h3>11. Try disconnecting when you don&rsquo;t need to be online</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: At night, when you&rsquo;re on holiday, or when you&rsquo;re just doing other things, disconnect your devices from any network.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Reduces exposure to online threats when you aren&rsquo;t looking, helps prevent digital burnouts, and makes it less likely you&rsquo;ll make a mistake online.
 
<h2 id="safetypitfalls">Common online safety pitfalls to avoid</h2>
When using the internet, there are some common mistakes that people often make which compromise their safety online that are useful to be aware of:
<ul>
<li>
Sharing passwords: You must never share any passwords, especially with people you don&rsquo;t know and trust in real life, as this puts the security of your accounts at risk.
</li>
<li>
Ignoring security alerts: Make sure you&rsquo;re paying attention to all alerts from your browser or antivirus software such as <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a>, as they&rsquo;ll let you know if there are any critical warnings about security or malicious activity.
</li>
<li>
Using old browsers: You should always be using the latest version of your chosen web browser to ensure you have the latest security features that will protect you against vulnerabilities.
</li>
</ul>
Clicking unknown links: Never click on links in unsolicited emails or messages from unknown sources as this could lead to phishing sites or download malicious software onto your device.
 
<h2 id="kidsonlinesafety">How to stay safe online for kids</h2>
The internet has become an important part of life for people of all ages, including children. It&rsquo;s crucial to make sure that time spent online in these early years is as safe as can be so they can enjoy learning and playing carefree.
Take a look at our top tips below to keep kids as safe as possible whilst they explore the online world.
<h3>12. Educate kids about online safety</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Teach children about the risks of sharing personal information and the importance of keeping it private.
</li>
<li>
What it does: Helps them understand potential threats and how to avoid them.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>13. Set up parental controls</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Use parental control software to monitor and restrict children&rsquo;s online activity. <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> comes with helpful features such as Parental Control and SafeCam which make keeping children safe online even easier. Our <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/superior-wifi">Linksys WiFi routers</a> even allow you to <a href="https://help.communityfibre.co.uk/troubleshooting/wifi-and-broadband-troubleshooting/i-want-to-enable-parental-controls">enable parental control</a> on your home network.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Limits exposure to inappropriate content and potential predators.
<h3>14. Encourage open communication</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Foster an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences with you.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Allows you to address concerns and guide them in making safe online choices.
<h3>15. Supervise kids while online</h3>
<ul>
<li>
What to do: Regularly check the websites and apps your children are using. If you have a Community Fibre router, we encourage parents to download the Linksys app to give you more control over your WiFi and restrict the hours children can be online.
</li>
</ul>
What it does: Ensures children are accessing age-appropriate and safe content, as well as keeping their internet access controlled for their protection.
 
<h2 id="onlinesafety">Embracing online safety</h2>
Following these tips will significantly strengthen your online security and help your whole household enjoy everything the internet has to offer with greater peace of mind.
To further your understanding of <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/digital-skills">online safety</a>&nbsp;and other topics such as <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-community-fibre-is-helping-to-bridge-the-digital-poverty-gap">digital poverty</a> we have a range of free digital skills resources available on our content hub that you can explore.
To boost your online security, check out our <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/norton">Norton&trade; 360 Premium</a> package, which offers advanced safety features designed to keep you protected. Pair it with one of our <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages">broadband packages</a> to enjoy unbeatable broadband in London, Surrey, and Sussex.

The internet is integral to modern life but it also comes with its challenges. Learn more about internet safety with our 15 tips to stay safe online.

Online Safety Tips for a Secure Internet Experience

Using the internet for everyday tasks can make life easier, but do you know how to stay safe online? Check out our 15 online safety tips to protect you and your family.

Online safety tips for a secure internet experience

<h2>What is the best upload speed for live-streaming games?</h2>
Most of us engage with videos from content creators who post on YouTube, Facebook, and other social media platforms. These videos often reach audiences days or weeks after being filmed, and in an edited format.
Live streaming offers content creators the opportunity to put themselves in front of their fans and engage with their responses in real time. Live streams of games are incredibly popular, and you as the creator can even ask the audience questions or get them to help you make decisions. Instantaneous engagement can help professional and aspiring online streamers grow their image and reach new audiences.
Fast and reliable <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/speed">broadband speed</a> is an essential part of a successful stream, whether you stream your games to show your skills to friends, or broadcast popular games to the world. Your broadband connection can be the difference between keeping and losing your audience. Viewership can decline if your stream keeps pausing, lagging, or cutting out.
But how can you make sure your broadband can support gaming and live streaming at the same time? Whether you&rsquo;re debuting a newly released game, or collaborating with another streamer on a <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/the-9-most-anticipated-multiplayer-games-for-2023">multiplayer game</a>, it ultimately comes down to the upload speed delivered by your broadband.&nbsp;
 
<h2>What is upload speed?</h2>
When live streaming content, you are transmitting data from your network &mdash; this is where upload speed comes into play. Upload speed refers to how many bits of data your device can send to the internet per second. You&rsquo;ll often see this data referred to as &lsquo;bitrate&rsquo; or &lsquo;Mbps&rsquo;.
Download speed is the opposite, where data is transferred to your device from the internet. An example of this would be loading a new game.&nbsp;
Advertised <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/broadband-speeds-guide">broadband speeds</a> are not a guaranteed indicator of how fast your upload and download speeds will be. The advertised Mbps or Gbps refers to your speeds over a wired connection, over an Ethernet cable.&nbsp;
Many providers deliver a much slower upload speed compared to download speeds over WiFi &mdash; which leads to your broadband playing catch up with itself. This is less than ideal for content creators who rely on fast uploads to stream videos directly to all their viewers, possibly while playing an online game at the same time.&nbsp;
Community Fibre <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages">broadband packages</a> guarantee symmetrical speeds, so you can stream in the highest quality while maintaining a reliable connection.
 
<h2>Live streaming on different platforms</h2>
Whatever platform you choose, the ideal upload speed will depend on the frame rate and resolution you want to stream in for the best quality.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>
Frame rate - how many images (or frames) can be shown within one second. The higher the frame rate, the smoother the visuals appear. Frame rate is measured in frames-per-second (fps). To give you an idea of how frame rates differ depending on content type, video games are often 60 fps while movies and shows on TV are usually 30 fps.
</li>
<li>
Resolution - how many pixels are within each frame. The more pixels, the more details can be seen. You might see this displayed as (p), such as 720p, which means 720 pixels will be within each frame.
</li>
</ul>
As a general guide, having an additional 5 Mbps of speed acts as a contingency during speed fluctuations. With this in mind, let&rsquo;s take a look at the minimum upload speed suggestions for popular streaming platforms:
<h3>Streaming on Twitch</h3>
Twitch is an absolute must for anyone who wants to get serious about streaming games.
When you stream gameplay on Twitch, you&rsquo;ll likely use a PC or laptop for your regular streams. These devices will allow you to make use of a wired connection, so definitely get hold of an Ethernet cable if you don't have one already to optimise your bitrate.&nbsp;
You can also use your phone to stream on Twitch, ideal for giving your viewers a quick on-the-go update.
Your viewers will appreciate good quality video. Ideally, you should stream in HD, which uses a resolution of 1080p and 60 fps. This quality requires a minimum of 6 Mbps per second &mdash; if we take our 5 Mbps of extra speed in case of fluctuations into account, this brings our optimum upload speed to 11 Mbps.&nbsp;
See the minimum upload speeds from Twitch:
1080p resolution with a frame rate of 60 fps Minimum upload speed: 6 Mbps
1080p resolution with a frame rate of 30 fps Minimum upload speed: 4.5 Mbps
720p resolution with a frame rate of 60 fps Minimum upload speed: 4.5 Mbps
720p resolution with a frame rate of 30 fps Minimum upload speed: 3 Mbps
Refer to Twitch&rsquo;s broadcasting guidelines for full details on <a href="https://help.twitch.tv/s/article/broadcasting-guidelines?language=en_US">video and audio quality</a>. Twitch&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/creatorcamp/en/paths/going-live/">Creator Camp</a> has a lot of resources to help you get set up for streaming, so be sure to check it out to make sure you have all your bases covered.
<h3>Streaming on YouTube Live</h3>
Live streaming on YouTube is possible at pretty much any quality, thanks to clever transcoding that optimises the viewer&rsquo;s experience automatically.&nbsp;
YouTube helpfully provides recommendations for a broad range of video quality levels &mdash; though it may be best to aim for around 1080 (60 fps) as this will provide the best balance for your audience and your broadband.&nbsp;
Streaming in this HD quality will require a minimum upload of 4 Mbps. Adding our 5 Mbps contingency, this brings the optimal speed to 9 Mbps.
See the minimum upload speeds from YouTube Live:
<ul>
<li>2160p resolution with a frame rate of 60 fps Minimum upload speed: 10 Mbps</li>
<li>2160p resolution with a frame rate of 30 fps Minimum upload speed: 8 Mbps</li>
<li>1440p resolution with a frame rate of 60 fps Minimum upload speed: 6 Mbps</li>
<li>1440p resolution with a frame rate of 30 fps Minimum upload speed: 5 Mbps</li>
<li>1080p resolution with a frame rate of 60 fps Minimum upload speed: 4 Mbps</li>
<li>1080p resolution with a frame rate of 30 fps Minimum upload speed: 3 Mbps</li>
<li>720p resolution with a frame rate of 60 fps Minimum upload speed: 3 Mbps</li>
<li>720p resolution with a frame rate of 30 fps Minimum upload speed: 3 Mbps</li>
</ul>
<div align="center"></div>
Refer to&nbsp;<a href="https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/2853702?hl=en&amp;ref_topic=9257892&amp;sjid=12372752253270642364-EU">YouTube&rsquo;s guidelines</a> for detailed information on live streaming from any device.
<h3>Streaming on Facebook Live</h3>
Facebook Live streams tend to be slightly lower quality than other streaming platforms, but if you aim for around 1080p and 60 fps, this should be similar to quality delivered elsewhere. To achieve this quality, you&rsquo;ll need a minimum upload speed of 4.5 Mbps.&nbsp;
If we add 5 Mbps to allow for any speed challenges, this brings it up to 9.5 Mbps &mdash; similar to YouTube Live.
See the minimum upload speeds from Facebook Live:
<ul>
<li>1080p resolution with a frame rate of 60 fps Minimum upload speed: 4.5 Mbps</li>
<li>1080p resolution with a frame rate of 30 fps Minimum upload speed: 3 Mbps</li>
<li>720p resolution with a frame rate of 60 fps Minimum upload speed: 2.5 Mbps</li>
<li>720p resolution with a frame rate of 30 fps Minimum upload speed: &nbsp;&gt; 1 Mbps</li>
<li>480p resolution with a frame rate of 30 fps Minimum upload speed: &gt; 1 Mbps</li>
<li>360p resolution Minimum upload speed: &gt; 1 Mbps</li>
</ul>
<div align="center"></div>
Refer to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/business/help/162540111070395?id=1123223941353904">Facebook&rsquo;s guidelines</a> to see their full technical requirements for live streaming, in addition to content requirements and policies.
<h3>Streaming on TikTok Live</h3>
TikTok doesn&rsquo;t have any specific minimum upload speed recommendations for live videos. However, your TikTok Live streams will likely be from a smartphone or a tablet rather than a PC or laptop.
&nbsp;It&rsquo;s safe to assume that if your broadband speed is enough for live streaming your games from a computer, it should have no trouble handling your mobile updates, which will be much shorter and less intense.&nbsp;
 
<h2>How can I improve my live stream quality?</h2>
Don&rsquo;t settle for poor quality. There&rsquo;s a lot you can check, optimise, and test to find the best setup for your streams. Try some of our tips:
<h3>Test your current speeds</h3>
Check your upload speeds before attempting live streaming to avoid any video disasters. A simple online <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/speedtest">speed test tool</a> will let you know your upload and download speed, as well as <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/how-ping-jitter-and-latency-affect-your-gaming-experience">ping and jitter</a>, which could affect your overall gaming experience.
<h3>Choose a wired Ethernet connection</h3>
Upload and download speeds are much faster over a wired connection. When streaming your content, consider using an Ethernet cable for a more reliable connection with guaranteed speeds.
&nbsp;Plug an Ethernet cable into the back of your WiFi router, and simply plug it into your PC or laptop. Most PCs should have this port available, though newer laptops might not &mdash; but you can easily get an adapter to enable this connection.
<h3>Reduce the pressure on your bandwidth</h3>
Your broadband speed is spread across all connected devices in your household &mdash; this is called bandwidth. While streaming, it would be beneficial to disconnect unused devices from the WiFi network so your streaming device can get a bigger portion of the bandwidth available.
<h3>Keep software and hardware updated</h3>
Your computer and devices should be able to cope with running high-quality video and fast-paced games, in addition to streaming. These are quite heavy demands, so it&rsquo;s important to keep software updated.
Your PC and laptop should also be able to run the latest software. If you haven&rsquo;t had a new computer since dial up internet was around, it&rsquo;s definitely time to get an upgrade!&nbsp;
<h3>Try a cloud-based streaming service</h3>
Consider utilising a multistreaming cloud based services, such as Restream and Streamlab. Multistreaming platforms reduce the pressure on your bandwidth and CPU, which is ideal if your broadband is struggling to keep up with your rapid gameplay.&nbsp;
Additionally, these services allow you to broadcast your streams onto several platforms at once. Instead of choosing one primary platform to be live on, or doing several streams across different platforms, you can stream onto multiple platforms at the same time. Reaching new and existing audiences in this way could really be a gamechanger for anyone serious about making a name for themselves through streaming games.
<h3>Switch to a more reliable provider</h3>
If your current broadband just can&rsquo;t support your streaming dream, it could be time to switch to a new provider that values reliability and speed.
For streamers based in London, Surrey or Sussex, we offer fast and reliable broadband at unbeatable prices. Our <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/why-full-fibre-is-best">full fibre broadband</a> delivers symmetrical upload and download speeds, 99.9% uptime, and no slowdown periods to keep your live streams up and running.&nbsp;
<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/#residential-packages">Explore broadband packages</a>

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Watch out for the Christmas lights! The holiday season is upon us, and with all of the festivities on the horizon (in person or virtually), your WiFi connection may start to slow down; it won&rsquo;t just be granny after a few sherries! Tablets, smartphones, laptops and gaming devices &ndash; to name a few &ndash; can use up a lot of bandwidth. So, here are some top tips to help manage your broadband across your devices.
<h2>Fairy lights</h2>
This one may sound fake, but we promise there is truth behind it. Those twinkling lights on the tree or dotted around your house may help you get into the holiday spirit, but did you know that they can also disrupt the WiFi signal from your router<a href="#_edn1" name="_ednref1">[i]</a>?
Thankfully, this is usually only the case for older lights. They emit a 2.4GHz frequency which can make the lights act as an antenna if not properly grounded. However, the good news is that LED lights are far less likely to cause this issue. So, if you&rsquo;ve dusted off those old fairy lights and want to get the best signal possible, it&rsquo;s time to invest in some new ones to make the tree sparkle.&nbsp;
<h2>Swimming with the fishes</h2>
Who would have thought that Goldie could be a culprit. Fish tanks (and, generally, all large bodies of water) do a great job at blocking radio waves around 2.4GHz (the typical frequency for WiFi). So, position your WiFi router away from large bodies of water, including the fish tank, and your boiler while you&rsquo;re at it.
<h2>Human beings (yes, that means you)</h2>
Similar to fish tanks, human beings do a good job at absorbing radio waves, which we really don&rsquo;t want to happen when we&rsquo;re watching the new series of Bridgerton. Placing your WiFi router away from high-traffic areas will help keep you getting the speeds you&rsquo;re paying for.
<h2>Be careful where you put it</h2>
Think of your WiFi router as a boombox. If you placed it on the windowsill in the farthest area of a room, your sweet tunes would be flying out the window and annoying your neighbours! With a WiFi router, the principle is the same, instead of connecting to your devices, it will be sending the signal to the street. Worry not! If you move your WiFi router to a central area in your home, away from windows, you can achieve greater coverage.
<h2>Change is a good thing</h2>
If you&rsquo;re still experiencing slow speeds and your provider isn&rsquo;t able to offer a solution, it may be time for you to switch to a new internet provider. If you're looking for a high-quality internet provider, we offer&nbsp;<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/deals" rel="follow">full fibre broadband deals</a> starting from just &pound;21/month<a href="#_edn2" rel="follow">*</a>, <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/3-gigafast">London's fastest broadband speeds up to 3 Gbps</a> (up to 800 Mbps over WiFi), and our dedicated network is built using the&nbsp;<a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/why-full-fibre-is-best" rel="follow">UK's most reliable broadband technology</a>. So you can make speed limitations and those pesky peak-time issues a thing of the past.&nbsp;
<h2>What not to decorate</h2>
Not everyone will do this, but if you&rsquo;re feeling super festive, this one might be for you. While you may decorate the rest of your house within an inch of its life the one place to leave well alone is the WiFi router. While it may look pretty, you risk reducing the power of your WiFi signal. It would be the equivalent of trying to run at the same speed in water as you would on land.
<h2>Routers that mesh together&hellip;</h2>
If you live in a large property, then this one will be helpful for you. For most WiFi routers, the further away you are, the weaker the signal gets. However, there is hope. Using <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/community-connect/blog/what-is-mesh-wifi-and-how-does-it-work" rel="follow">mesh WiFi routers can extend your coverage</a>. They interlink together to form a pretty nifty mesh network that'll give you more consistent coverage throughout your home.
<h2>Disconnect to get that connect</h2>
This is a quick and easy tip that will help if you&rsquo;re suffering slow speeds or you're unable to connect devices to your WiFi router. Not all your devices need to be connected to the internet at the same time, all the time. This means your games console can take a little WiFi break, and your laptop under your bed can put its broadband feet up, especially if you don't use them regularly. So turn the WiFi off on devices that aren't in use &ndash; <a href="https://communityfibre.co.uk/speed" rel="follow">it&rsquo;ll save you precious bandwidth</a>.
<h2>A fresh start</h2>
If your WiFi speeds have slowed down for no apparent reason, sometimes the best solution is to switch your router off and back on. This allows the router to reassess the best frequency to be operating on, especially if there has been a change in interference from all the new tech the family has got for Christmas. Also, if you have a mesh system which you have moved, you should do the same to reset the router frequencies for optimal efficiency. For existing Community Fibre customers, you can <a href="https://help.communityfibre.co.uk/troubleshooting" rel="follow">check out our Help section to see how to get started with troubleshooting.</a>

 
Good to know
<hr>
<a href="#_ednref1" name="_edn1">[i]</a> <a href="https://www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-and-broadband/coverage-and-speeds/broadband-speeds/" rel="follow">https://www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-and-broadband/coverage-and-speeds/broadband-speeds/</a>
<hr>
<a href="#_ednref2" name="_edn2">*</a> Prices correct as of 31 May 2024. From 1st April every year we will increase the price of our services by up to the Government published Consumer Price Index (CPI) from January of the same year plus 2.9%. For more details and a worked example see communityfibre.co.uk/legal-stuff#promotional.

Christmas lights could be interfering with your WiFi. Here are a few simple tricks to improve your WiFi connection during the festive season.

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