Cybercrime

Phishing

Phishing is when a criminal uses fake emails, texts or calls to trick a person into believing they are from a reputable company.

The aim is to get the individual person to visit a website where they may download a harmful virus or share personal details such as bank details.

Another Form is Spear phishing;

This is where the criminal contacts an individual directly, often posing as a brand or company that individual has used previously, they can often seem very genuine, even Phone calls.

How to spot a Phishing scam

If an email is random or unexpected, ignore it or contact the company directly using an online contact number or by phone.

Do not click on any links that are sent in these emails.

Never give out personal information over the phone or via text or email.

It is important to remember that your Bank, The Police and reputable companies will never ask for sensitive or financial details on the phone or through text/Email.

Identity Theft

Identity Theft is when a criminal obtains personal information and pretends to be someone else to commit their crimes.

If they succeed at obtaining sensitive information, they may use this to commit identity fraud and access bank accounts, or possibly take out a loan.

You can shred bank statements etc. as cybercriminals may try to go through bins to obtain information.

Also make sure your passwords and pins are strong - dates of birth for example is easy to guess.

Malware Attacks

This is short for malicious software that cybercriminals use to steal data or destroy a computer or networked device.

A malware attack is when a cybercriminal entices you to click on a link that will download malware onto your device. When you then continue to shop online and use your credit card and passwords to access your account, the malware is ransomware, which locks the device and the owner is asked to pay the criminal to unlock it.

To Prevent Malware attacks, always make sure there are cookies in your browser.

Be aware of suspicious- looking emails, texts or calls. Never click on links that seem random or out of place and if in doubt, contact the company directly to confirm any concerns.

---

Protect yourself online by never clicking suspicious links, being aware of sharing personal information and reporting any worries you may have to actionfraud.police.uk.

If you receive an email or text from someone you do not recognize or were not expecting ignore, delete or block the number to prevent any harm being done.

If it is someone important they will try another means of contacting you so do not worry about not responding.