Remote working, new technologies and smart phones are, in many ways, making our lives easier than ever, but they are also adding new layers of complexity when it comes to online security and safety.
Just as we’re all either working remotely or in lockdown during the coronavirus crisis – in order to protect our communities, each other and the NHS – so too are cyber-criminals across the world, unfortunately.
That’s why we think it’s so important to raise awareness about cyber fraud and to encourage our customers to take some simple steps to keep their computers, phones and personal data safe from online fraudsters.
After all, prevention is always better than cure!
Be cyber savvy
The coronavirus pandemic is seeing more and more people turning to technology to live their lives.
And with more technology and more things being done online than ever before, scammers will seize the opportunity to try out their tricks. It’s key now to be more cyber savvy than ever before.
Three simple steps to safety:
1. Be extra cautious
Phishing and spoof emails can often jump on the back of trending issues – like COVID-19 – so it’s vital that you’re really careful about clicking on suspicious emails asking you to provide information and personal data.
These scam emails can often claim to be from government departments, banks or other trusted organisations, sometimes offering payments or fines related to the coronavirus outbreak, so simply be extra cautious when entering your personal data anywhere online.
2. Protect yourself against threats and viruses
In order to give yourself the best protection possible against potential phishing attacks, it’s key that you have up to date malware and virus detection protection. If you’re unsure what this is speak to a trusted friend or family member or look online as there is lots of useful information.
To ensure you have the latest software and app updates, there’s some useful information here.
3. If in doubt, take a minute
If you think that an SMS, email or website seems suspicious; if something comes out of the blue or sounds too good to be true….then take a moment to stop and think.
Cyber criminals can be experts at impersonating people and organisations, so follow this advice – Take Five to Stop Fraud.
- Stop – take a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information.
- Challenge – Ask: Could this be fake? It’s OK to reject, refuse or ignore emails you’re suspicious about.
- Protect – Contact your bank or the organisation immediately if you think you may have been victim to a scam.
