Free cyber security sessions from Dorset Police
In 2022, Dorset residents and businesses lost nearly £21 million to fraud and cyber crime. Dorset Police is officering free advice and support to those susceptible of becoming a victim of these crimes.
Research shows that only around 10 per cent of cyber crime is formally reported. This means that the full value lost may be much greater.
Chris Conroy from the Dorset Police Cyber Crime Unit said: “People assume that they are safe from cyber crime. However, data from Action Fraud who record reports of cyber crime nationally on behalf of police forces suggests that no one age group is more likely to targeted. There is a scam out there for everyone.
“We offer free cyber awareness sessions to anyone in Dorset. These offer impartial advice and guidance to help you stay safe online. We regularly speak to community groups, businesses, schools, and charities who want to feel more confident on the internet.”
Recently, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) launched the latest phase of the Cyber Aware campaign. It aims to help sole traders, micro businesses and small organisations stay safe online. The NCSC is the UK’s technical authority on cyber security.
Chris continued: “Last year, 92 per cent of recorded victims in Dorset were individuals. Cyber Aware reminds everyone that you don’t have to be a cyber expert to protect yourself or your business from criminals. The best part is that some of the easiest ways to protect yourself are completely free.”
The Dorset Police Cyber Crime Unit recommends using strong, unique passwords. By stringing three random words together you can create a password that is strong enough to keep criminals out but easy enough for you to remember.
Turning on 2-Step Verification is a safety net should somebody steal your password. This requires you to provide a code, usually sent to your phone, when you log in to an account.
Police CyberAlarm is an award-winning free tool funded by the Home Office. It helps your business or organisation track and report suspicious cyber activity. Police CyberAlarm provides regular reports which lets you identify and mitigate cyber risks. You can learn more about this tool at www.cyberalarm.police.uk.
If you are interested in booking a cyber awareness session for you, your business or community group please visit the Dorset Police website: www.dorset.police.uk/cyber
If you suspect you’ve been scammed, defrauded or experienced cyber crime, visit www.actionfraud.police.uk for help, support and advice.
