Take action now to protect yourself from cyber crooks

Members of the public should be aware of the importance of protecting themselves from online scams and malicious software (malware).

According to new information published by the National Crime Agency (NCA), up to 15,000 computers in the UK could be infected, with many people unaware and taking insufficient precautions to protect their sensitive information such as bank account details and passwords.

The NCA is urging everyone to update their virus software regularly, scan new downloads for potentially harmful files and to regularly change their password in order to ensure better protection. They have published a range of guidelines for improving computer safety on their Get Safe website http://www.getsafeonline.org/nca/ 

Cybercrime is an increasing problem in the UK, costing businesses in the UK an estimated £21billion each year. Computer users are typically infected by clicking on attachments or links in emails which may look like they have been sent by genuine contacts and claim to contain pictures, voicemail messages, or any file made to look innocuous.

According to the NCA’s National Cyber Crime Unit, computer users and businesses have a two week window within to strengthen their online security and protect themselves from a particularly harmful virus, commonly known as GOZeuS. The virus lies dormant on an individual computer until it detects sensitive information such as bank details, before capturing these and sending them on to criminals. 

Information on ensuring security software is up to date can be found at Get Safe Online and Cyber Streetwise.