The recent detection of additional, severe security flaws in Internet Explorer is apparently helping drive record downloads of Opera 8.51, the latest version of Opera's award-winning Web browser - which, since its debut less than one week ago, has been downloaded by more than one million people.

"It's clear that consumers want a safer online experience, particularly during the busiest online shopping season of the year," said Opera Software's CEO Jon von Tetzchner (pictured). 

"We do everything we can to keep our users safe," he continued. "That means introducing innovations such as the yellow security bar and constantly reviewing and testing our browser for vulnerabilities. These are necessary steps to stay ahead of the most advanced cyber criminals."

Already the safest browsing option available according to what von Tetzchner calls independent tests, Opera 8.51 - he says - provides additional security fixes that help protect individuals from identity theft and other cyber fears.

"Javelin Research estimates that more than 9.3 million U.S. citizens had their identity stolen last year, with more than 11% falling victim through online scams," von Tetzchner points out. His company, he adds, has prepared a guide to shopping safely online at http://www.opera.com/security/tips/.