Although the security built into the browser is identical in its workings to the US version which has been available for some weeks, the does feature some necessary localisation.

The main difference between Secure-Me and a conventional browser is that it accesses the Internet after setting up an encrypted channel between itself and Network's Intercept's US-based cloud. All sites are visited through this layer, which also renders sessions anonymous.

Its makers say this accelerates browsing and blocks domain redirection attacks, and stops malware having access to personal data within a session. In the background, a semi-independent keystroke interference program (which works with other programs on a PC) blocks both hardware and software keylogging. The program also incorporates Clam-AV antivirus scanning, integrates file encryption for files on local or attached drives, and allows encrypted file transfer.

The localisation is necessary to allow access to UK-only services such as the BBC's popular iPlayer, which would otherwise be blocked because access is always through the US cloud.

Some aspects of the cloud security design will also work with Internet Explorer. Setting IE as the default browser will allow it to connect through an encrypted channel to the Network Intercept Cloud. That gives these users an encrypted and anonymous channel.