Turn it on to stay safer online
Web Threat Protect is a free security feature that helps keep you safer online by blocking harmful or fake websites, including those linked to scams, phishing and viruses. If a website looks unsafe, it’ll warn you before you go any further, so you can choose whether to continue or avoid it.
Our Smart Hubs come with Web Threat Protect built in, so you’re protected from the moment you connect.
What it does
It protects you from online threats by blocking your connection to websites known to be unsafe or warning you about potential risks.
You’re protected automatically on:
- Any device using your BT Broadband connection.
- Devices connected to UK EE WiFi hotspots when you log in with your BT ID.
You don’t need to download or install anything, and it won’t slow down your broadband.
How it works
When you browse online, your browser checks the websites you visit against a list of known harmful or suspicious sites.
If a site is considered unsafe, it may be blocked, or you may see a warning page. You can choose to continue if you're confident the site is safe, but we don't recommend this.
What you’ll see when a site is blocked
What happens depends on the type of website.
Websites starting with http
You’ll see a warning page explaining the risk. You can choose to continue, but the site is likely to be malicious.Some secure https websites
You may see a blank screen instead of a warning. This still means the site has been blocked to protect you.
What it covers
It works across:
- All devices using your BT Broadband connection.
- Devices connected to EE WiFi hotspots when logged in with your BT ID.
- Browsing and clicking links, including links in emails.
No additional software is required.
What it doesn't cover
It won't protect you if you're using:
- A VPN.
- An Apple device with iCloud Private Relay turned on.
- A browser or software that avoids using BT’s DNS service.
How to turn it on
- Log in to My BT using your BT ID.
- Scroll down and select Your Security.
- Find Web Threat Protect.
- Select Switch on Web Threat Protect.
You’ll see a confirmation screen. Protection usually starts within 2 hours.
How to turn it off
- Log in to My BT using your BT ID.
- Go to Manage my extras.
- Select Turn off in the Web Threat Protect panel.
Changes can take up to 2 hours to take effect.
About Web Threat Protect and BT Virus Protect
You still need antivirus software, even if you use Web Threat Protect.
Web Threat Protect and BT Virus Protect are separate products. They work differently and protect you in different ways:
- Web Threat Protect blocks harmful or fake websites at the network level, before they load.
- BT Virus Protect protects individual devices from viruses, spyware and other threats, both online and offline.
Using both together gives you more complete protection.
If a website is blocked and you think it shouldn't be
If you own, manage or regularly use the website, you can ask for it to be reviewed.
Tell us:
- The web address that is being blocked.
- Why you think the block is incorrect.
- What the site is used for.
Our security partners will review it and update the category if needed.
If Web Threat Protect is active, the site will stay blocked until the review is complete. If you decide to turn it off, make sure your device has up‑to‑date security software installed so you stay protected.