22 June 2007

Web developers have created a new set of standardised guidelines that seek to make the web a safer place for surfers.

A consortium comprising four internet browsers and 20 certification authorities has created the new standards in a bid to ensure that the legitimacy of website operators can be established, reports SC Magazine.

Businesses will be required to provide proof that they are legitimate companies before the CA/Browser Forum issues the clearance, a move that could help to deter phishers.

Tim Moses, chairman of the forum and the senior director of advanced technology at certification vendor Entrust, told the publication: "Never before has there been a standard for vetting the identities of subscribers ... they have been issued to phishing sites."

He added that the web has required a stronger means of identifying legitimate operators.

The main goals of the CA/Browser Forum are to facilitate secure connections and establish business identities, reducing the overall risk of online fraud.

© Adfero Ltd

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