Cyber Crime Awareness Month  

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is taking the opportunity to remind residents about Cyber safety during Cyber Crime Awareness month. Cyber Scams are on the rise and with more people using devices connected to the internet this will only continue. Several million cases of fraud and of computer misuse are reported to the police every year with many more never reported. Many of those crimes could have been prevented by making a few small changes in online behaviour.

To avoid becoming a victim of online crime you don't need to be a computer expert. Developing a few good online habits drastically reduces your chances of becoming a victim of cyber crime, makes you less vulnerable and lets you use the web safely.

Visit Cyber Aware for step-by-step instructions on keeping your devices up-to-date with the latest security updates, and for more online security advice.

How to reduce your chances of becoming a victim:

• Try using three unrelated words, such as 'autumnalcookieportugal'; and think of three different words for each account, so if one is compromised the others are safe.
• Never give personal or sensitive details out online or over email.
• Make sure all devices have up-to-date anti-virus software and a firewall installed.
• Keep software and apps regularly updated.
• Only download from legal, trusted websites.
• Only open emails and attachments from known and trusted sources.
• Only ever use websites that start with https://, however make sure that you're on the correct site by sense-checking the full website address.
• Regularly back up your data.
• Control your social media accounts - regularly check your privacy settings and how your data is being used and shared.
• Be cautious of internet chats and online dating - there's no guarantee you're speaking to who you think.
• Be extremely cautious if you are asked for money.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of cyber crime you can reported this a number of ways. If you are currently being subjected to a live and ongoing cyber-attack then please contact Warwickshire Police on 101.

If you suspect you've been scammed, defrauded or experienced cyber crime, the Action Fraud team can also provide the help, support and advice you need.

Call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 (textphone 0300 123 2050).

Support

• Information about keeping safe online and protecting yourself from cybercrime and fraud. Access the Get Safe Online website

• Victim Support offers support for victims of any crime, including Cyber Crime.
• You&Co is Victim Support's youth programme where young people can seek help and advice on all crime related issues.
• The Revenge Porn Helpline gives advice for revenge porn victims. It is also important to report Revenge Porn to the Police.
• The National Stalking Helpline offers advice and support for stalking victims.