Top tips to avoid becoming a victim of cyber crime

Christmas is edging ever closer, no matter how prepared you are. 2020 saw an 80% increase in online shopping compared to the previous year, and whilst we may be in for a slightly more normal festive season this year, many of us will find ourselves turning to online shopping to secure our gifts again.

But do we need to be cautious?

November 30th marks Cyber Security Day, a time for us to reflect on how secure you are online and how you can avoid falling victim to online crime.

Staying safe online

From work to shopping, our habits, especially in light of the pandemic, have continued to shift to have more of a digital focus. As a result, it is almost impossible to get through a day without the online world influencing you in some capacity.

Equally, a Google search of 'Cyber Security' returns millions of results, with many high-profile names appearing as victims of hacks and data breaches.

Whilst an attack on Microsoft or the NHS may be newsworthy, a hit on your own company or personal email address may not be. That doesn't mean you're any less at risk; new research has shown that, on average, businesses in the UK are now hit every 45 seconds by cybercriminals.

Gone phishin'

Fishing may be a relaxing pastime for many, but phishing is far less soothing. Phishing was the most common type of scam in 2020, but what does it mean?

Action Fraud described phishing as when "cyber criminals use fake messages as bait to lure you into clicking on the links within their scam email or text message, or to give away sensitive information (such as bank details)".

Have you received a strange text recently telling you that you have an outstanding postage fee to pay? That's a phishing attempt.

Be cautious with your clicks.

What can I do to stay safe?

Threats constantly evolve, with places like the Dark Web quickly becoming a security nightmare for businesses. All these can be concerning to read, so what can you do to stay safe?

Below are some of the steps we would encourage: 

• Think before you click! Phishing texts and emails are rife, especially as Christmas edges closer. If you aren't expecting a message, don't click a link.
• Do your research. As threats continue to evolve, your knowledge should move with it. Dedicate a little time to review the risks or turn to cyber security experts.
• Use secure passwords. Avoid using easy-to-guess phrases or personal information. The National Cyber Security Centre recommends using three random words for optimum security. 
• Alternatively, use a password manager such as LastPass or Bitwarden.
• Use two-factor authentication where possible. Doing so means that even if your information is stolen, hackers still can't access your accounts.

Have I been hacked?

Unfortunately, the worst can sometimes happen, and hacks happen - people try to steal your sensitive information daily. Plus, with the volume of phishing attempts and scam emails sent every minute, some people will inevitably click something they shouldn't.  

But sometimes, it might not even be your fault - as highlighted by recent user data breaches on sites such as LinkedIn or Facebook.

Use the free tool 'Have I Been Pwned?' to check any breaches associated with your email address and make any password changes where necessary.

Your data is the currency of the digital age, so take steps to protect yourself.