The government is launching an investigation into personal internet security, aimed at ensuring that current laws and regulations are capable of dealing with the latest threats and that individuals are aware of the issues.

The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee has launched a subcommittee to investigate areas such as the public’s understanding of online security threats; the part IT vendors have to play in improving protection for individuals; and whether current criminal law in the UK is capable of dealing with the growing problems.

“We are doing more and more online, from our weekly grocery shop to banking to downloading music and video... but how many of us know about the risks?” said Lord Broers, chairman of the subcommittee. “Technology is changing so fast that no-one seems to have had time to step back and look in the round at the emerging threats to personal security, and the ways society might counter them. This inquiry gives Parliament a chance to do just that.”

The committee is calling for feedback on various internet security issues, especially evidence from individuals who have had problems. The consultation will close on 23 October, and the committee hopes to publish its findings next summer.

The investigation follows the launch of the Get Safe Online campaign last October, which also aims to tackle the issue of internet security by offering users and small businesses practical advice and a dedicated website. The campaign is a joint initiative between law enforcement bodies and industry members such as HSBC and Microsoft.