The newest beta version of Internet Explorer 7.0 was released by Microsoft today. The new browser touts enhanced security features including a “phishing filter” designed alert users if they are browsing a site that might be attempting to steal personal data. Microsoft hopes the new filter will prevent malicious sites from duping users into entering private information into a familiar interfaces despite being operated by some other entity. Interestingly, the next release of Mozilla’s FireFox is expected to include a phishing filter as well.

The new Internet Explorer Browser also plays catchup with Opera and Mozilla’s FireFox by adding tabbed browsing. Though the new browser does add security enhancements over Internet Explorer 6.0, users should be aware that this is not the final release. The final version of Internet Explorer 7.0 is expected to be released with Microsoft’s new operating system sometime in 2007. But if you’re feeling bold and looking for something new, the beta version can be downloaded from Microsoft.

For a comparison or FireFox and Internet check out our latest review.