Keeping you safe online

Cyber crime is on the rise and takes many forms. It happens mostly through internet enabled devices, from phones, laptops, smart devices and computers, and can affect individuals and entire households. Cyber criminals seek to exploit human or security vulnerabilities in order to steal your identity, financial data, or business information, to commit fraud or for other exploitative and hateful reasons.

Spot the signs

Some of the common signs of cyber crime include:

• Unusual activity on your bank statements
• Emails or texts asking for personal information, including romantic advances
• Pop-ups or messages warning you about a virus on your computer
• Unusual activity on your social media accounts.

If you’re worried you or someone you know might be a victim of cyber crime, speak to Crimestoppers anonymously. By providing information to the charity, you’ll be helping them and the police make quick interventions to protect and safeguard some of the most vulnerable people in your community.

You can help prevent cyber crime by following these tips:

• Keep your software up to date
• Use strong passwords
• Be careful what you click on
• Use antivirus software
• Be careful what you share online.

Share this advice with your friends and neighbours to keep them safe online too.

What to do if you have information on a crime or concern for someone?

Stay anonymous and speak to one of CrimeStoppers’s specially trained staff on freephone 0800 555 111 or visit Crimestoppers-uk.org and complete a simple and secure anonymous online form. CrimeStoppers will never ask for or store your personal details.

In an emergency, or if a crime is happening now, always call the police on 999.