|
|
|
It is common to see a digital signature message when you try downloading a file. We explain what it is
Q I tried to download
Ace
Money Lite, which was recommended in Issue 318. When it had finished
downloading the following message appeared: ‘The publisher could not be
verified’. Am I putting my computer at risk by continuing?
Robin A. Ellis
A When Internet Explorer downloads a file from the internet, Windows checks whether or not it has a digital signature and asks you to confirm that you are happy to run it before doing anything.
Digital signatures are similar to the website certificates that dictate whether or not a padlock is displayed on secure web pages. Not that many companies sign their files so it is common to see this warning message. As long as your anti-virus and security software is up to date, and the download comes from a trusted manufacturer, you can safely ignore this warning.
Baffled by jargon? See our free online Jargon Buster.
Article tags
Related articles
Don't get caught out by computer scanning scams
Find out how the entertainment industry uses technology to protect its copyright
What does it mean when your PC warns that the 'regedit.sys' file is missing? We explain
Content Recommendation
Q.Why is Windows Backup skipping files?
Q.Why do my scanned documents display gibberish?
Q.How can I convert MTS files to edit in Windows Movie...
Updating your subscription status 
Save money by switching to fast 3G broadband
