Stay safe online and be cyber aware

Be Cyber Aware

Published: Monday 10th January 2022 | 3.58pm

The Chase Community Safety Partnership is helping residents stay safe online this month, with the launch of its ‘Be Cyber Aware’ campaign.

Since the pandemic, people are spending more time than ever online. This includes banking, shopping, working, streaming content and social media. This presents more opportunities for hackers to carry out cyber-attacks. They often do this by targeting people and businesses using email and website scams as well as using software that can damage your device or let a hacker in.

If hackers get into personal devices or accounts, they could access money, personal information, or information about a business.

Cyber Aware is the government’s campaign on how to stay secure online. The Council’s Partnerships Team has developed a localised version of this campaign with the support of Staffordshire Police’s Cyber Crime Unit and the National Cyber Security Centre.

The campaign will run throughout January and will promote the six actions that need to be taken to keep individuals and families safe whilst online. These include:

  1. Using a strong and separate password for your email
  2. Creating strong passwords using 3 random words
  3. Saving your passwords in your browser
  4. Turning on two-factor authentication (2FA)
  5. Updating your devices
  6. Backing up your data

Messages will be delivered through a series of online advertising including Facebook and Instagram, TikTok videos, a virtual guide and a short animation. The information provided by the National Cyber Security Centre, will be short and informative and include advice on how to avoid a cyber-attack as well as how to report a crime.

Councillor Bryan Jones, Portfolio Leader for Neighbourhood Safety & Partnerships said: “Several million cases of fraud and computer misuse are reported to the police every year.

To avoid becoming a victim of online crime you don’t need to be a computer expert.

“Developing a few good online habits drastically reduces your chances of becoming a victim of cyber crime, makes you less vulnerable and lets you use the web safely. This is why it is vital you remain vigilant and explore the six actions outlined in this campaign”.

DCI Ash Farrington of Staffordshire Police’s specialist investigations unit, said: “It is more important than ever to make sure you are being safe online.

“This is simpler than you may think and just by regularly updating passwords, keeping anti-virus software up-to-date and only opening emails or attachments from trusted sources, you’ll be more protected from online scammers.

“It’s also important to never share personal or sensitive information online – including any details that may help those looking to steal your identity or access financial accounts.

“Remember, if you would not tell someone this information in person, don’t post it online, as it may put you at risk.”

For step-by-step instructions on keeping your devices up to date with the latest security updates, and for more online security advice visit  www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberaware

To report a cyber crime, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 (textphone 0300 123 2050).

For more information about this campaign visit www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/cyberaware

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