Cybercrime is an increasing threat in the UK, with both businesses and individuals at risk of online scams.
It’s reported that online shopping fraud cost victims £63.8million in 2020. Cybercrime’s impact on the overall UK economy is estimated to be an eye-watering £27 billion per year.
There are many ways to improve your online security. Some involve installing the right software on your devices. Others are simply achievable by using the internet cautiously.
In this blog, we’ll explore some common threats and how you can protect yourself against them.
Understanding Online Threats
Cybercriminals deploy various tactics to take sensitive data from people and companies. Financial details, addresses, and other personal identifiers are common targets of hackers. Criminals can then use this information to scam people.
Common cybercrime methods include hacking, phishing, and malware.
- Hacking: This involves a criminal attempting to gain access to your data remotely. Using public Wi-Fi can make you more vulnerable to this. Tools like VPN help you change your IP address and are useful if you regularly need to use public networks – for example, if you travel a lot. You can check my IP address at this link: https://nordvpn.com/what-is-my-ip/
- Phishing: These are typically imposter messages designed to take you to a malicious website or download a file. They may appear as messages from a work colleague or a family member and often include language that urges you to act quickly.
- Malware: Phishing messages may have malicious software attached. The malware may affect your network or device. Others work by sending key data back to the cybercriminals.
How to Protect Yourself Online
- Password managers: Strong passwords are one of your best lines of defence against cybercriminals. It’s advised to use distinct passwords for different sites and apps. Remembering different combinations can be tricky, but password managers take the stress away. They create tough-to-crack passwords and store them digitally.
- Virtual private network (VPN): As we’ve established, public networks can pose a risk if cybercriminals are connected. Using a VPN to access public Wi-Fi shields your activity from any snoopers.
- Multi-factor verification: Using a passcode and biometrics adds extra protection if your device ends up in the wrong hands. You may also be able to utilise short-term passcodes that quickly expire and are almost impossible to hack.
Safe Browsing Practices
Checking the security status of any website you’re on is a great starting point. Websites with ‘https’ at the start of the URL are secure. You can trust them for online transactions.
Avoid any suspicious links or pop-ups, especially those that urge you to click something. They might claim your computer has a virus or that you risk missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime deal.
Think carefully before proceeding and err on the side of caution if these messages are unexpected.
Social media is another area where you should consider your online security. Posting the area you live in or details about you and your family could inadvertently build a profile that scammers could use against you.
