AN investigation into internet hackers working across Essex libraries has revealed its systems are just as secure as other providers.

Essex Council's IT security team vetted its networks after an East Clacton resident raised the red flag about people illegally hacking into people's personal computers and smart phones whilst being connected to free library Wi-Fi.

Councillor Colin Sargeant, of Holland-on-Sea Residents’ Association, who first received the prompt, praised the council's speedy response.

He said: "They clearly take this matter of internet fraud very seriously.

"I'm particularly worried for our youngsters who understandably will want to make use of free Wi-Fi, however, being ignorant of the dangers of being unprotected.

"This is a good example how the residents of east Clacton can be my eyes and ears to prompt me to act on behalf of our area."

Information posters will soon be circulated in libraries across the county to highlight the risk and ensure staff are also briefed on how to respond to internet safety queries from the public.

General advice on staying safe online includes activating firewalls and anti-virus software on your devices, only connecting to secure websites and to turn off Wi-Fi when it is not in use.