PERSONAL CYBER SECURITY
Cyber security is the means by which individuals and organisations reduce the risk of being affected by cyber crime.
Cyber security’s core function is to protect the devices we all use (smartphones, laptops, tablets and computers), and the services we access online – both at home and work – from theft or damage. It’s also about preventing unauthorised access to the vast amounts of personal information we store on these devices, and online.
Cyber security is important because smartphones, computers and the internet are now such a fundamental part of modern life, that it’s difficult to imagine how we’d function without them. From online banking and shopping, to email and social media, it’s more important than ever to take steps that can prevent cyber criminals getting hold of our accounts, data, and devices.
Here are some common concerns citizens have:
Gmail, Facebook, Twitter… it doesn’t matter what the service is, from time to time someone will find a way in. If one of your accounts has been hacked, don’t worry, we have a step by step guide to help you regain control and protect yourself against future attacks.
Your personal credentials – usernames and passwords, can be stolen directly from you by criminals using tricks such as phishing emails. Hackers can also steal them from the services you use if they suffer a data breach.
If you think that your account details have been stolen the first thing you should do is change your password as soon as possible.
If you have used the same password on any other accounts, you should change those too.
If you think your laptop, PC, tablet or phone has been infected with a virus or some other type of malware, there are steps you can take.
CARIBSOC has guides to help you remove viruses and restore your device.
Scam emails, calls and SMS messages are a big problem for everyone. Some of the tricks scammers use are getting more and more convincing every day.
Read our advice on spotting and dealing with suspicious emails, calls and texts.
Most cybercrime is aimed at getting money by exploiting victims. Some routes might not be very obvious to the victims, but nearly always, financial reward is a hackers goal.
If you think your bank details have been stolen – contact your bank and speak to their fraud department quickly.
Remember:
- Your bank will not ask you to reply to an e-mail with personal information, or details about your account. If you contact them, use a phone number/email address you have found yourself, rather than one sent to you in the email – it may be false.
- You can check your credit reference file online. You should follow up on any unexpected or suspicious results that may mean that you have been a victim of identity theft.
CARIBSOC has guidance on protecting yourself from identity theft and cyber-fraud.
