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A FOUR-word warning that pops up when using Google Chrome could well prompt a feeling of impending doom.
But experts have revealed how to protect your privacy while online - and steer clear of cybercrooks.
Most of us would have stumbled on a website that triggers a “your connection is not private” or “your connection is not secure” error message.
A computer security software firm said this means your browser is confused about whether a website has safe encryption protocols.
So, this leaves a question mark over the protection of your device and data, added , based in San Jose, California.
The “your connection is not private” error is Google Chrome’s phrasing, it explained.
Other browsers might display “your connection is not secure” or a similar warning.
This can happen while using a computer, smartphone, or tablet.
The good news is that the error is just an alert.
"It doesn’t mean any of your private info is compromised,"; said McAfee.
It simply means the website you were trying to visit doesn’t have an up-to-date secure sockets layer (SSL) security certificate.
This certificate stops hackers from seeing or stealing any information transferred, including personal or financial data.
"It establishes an encrypted connection between your web browser and the website you’re visiting," said the firm.
This is particularly vital when, for example, you're doing online banking.
The way you'll know that it's a SSL-protected site is that the web address begins with HTTPS, with the “s” standing for “secure.”
Or, there might be a little padlock symbol in the address bar.
Keep your internet cookies out of the hands of criminals
These tips will help keep your accounts safe from cookie thieves and your devices free from malicious software, says :
If you're 100% sure the website or page is safe, there are ways around the warning.
For starters, you could refresh the page - in case the error message is only a temporary issue.
Or, try closing the browser and reopening it.
But, be very wary when trying to use public Wi-Fi.
"Hackers often exploit public Wi-Fi because their routers are usually not as secure or well-maintained for security," said McAfee.
"Some public Wi-Fi networks might not support SSL connections altogether."
You should double-check you have the right website, as cybercrooks and scammers try to snare people through misspelled or alternative URLs to official versions.
Don't forget to keep your critical software and the operating system fully updated.
And, if you’ve tried all the troubleshooting tips and still see the error, the problem is probably from the site itself.
"You’ll have the option to 'proceed to the domain,' though we don’t recommend it," the firm added.
"The bottom line is that you take your chances anytime you ignore an error like this."
HOW TO PROTECT PRIVACY ONLINE:
