McAfee has created some tips to help consumers keep safe the notebooks and PCs they got for Christmas.

The security software company has outlined a number of simple steps after research it carried out showed one in seven consumers don’t take even basic measures to keep their PCs safe.

McAfee said this left users vulnerable to a range of threats including, spyware, adware, hackers, phishing scams and identity theft.

The tips urge people use multiple layers of security. This includes installing anti-spyware, which scans downloads and websites for malicious software that tracks online activities, and anti-spam, which blocks junk emails.

McAfee also recommends installing anti-virus protection, which scans for malicious files that give the PC or notebook a virus, and anti-phishing tools, which identify phishing emails and links that trick users into giving away private information.

An active firewall, which updates and upgrades automatically, would also help prevent hackers from gaining access to a PC or laptop.