Why you need to know about cyber-crime
The crimes that are being perpetrated are not new: they are crimes as old as time, it's still fraud, theft, espionage, stalking etc.
As our Chief Information Security Officer, Jo Austin, explains, what has changed is the tools criminals now have at their disposal have allowed them to become anonymous and given them greater access to you, your possessions and information. In the past, if someone wanted to steal your identity or bank details, they would have to make the effort to steal your mail, go through your rubbish or even send you a letter, now they don’t need to leave their sofa. Just as in the physical world it takes a bit of effort and thought to be safe, the same is true online.
Prevention is much better than recovery.
Growing up, we learn to take care of ourselves and our possessions, for example remembering to lock your bike when you get to school. As adults, we learn to be cynical of those "too good to be true" deals.
Cyber-crime is very real
Cyber criminals want your personal data: name, address, date of birth, bank and credit card details, user names and passwords and so on. These are sold on allowing criminals to commit crimes and fraud in your name.
In the business world, many of us are also responsible for the personal information of others, be they colleagues, customers, or other client data.
The means at the cyber criminals' disposal to steal information is increasingly sophisticated, so we all have to take regular action to look after our data.
How can I protect my data?
Every time you connect to the internet, you and your data is at risk. Basic procedures such as installing anti-virus software, enabling computer firewalls and using secure unique passwords are a great start.
Never click on links unless you are sure they are reputable. Be wary of emails that purport to come an "official" source such as the HMRC, banks etc, especially if they ask you to click on links or request confirmation of some of your details.
However, this is just the start.
Cyber Essentials
Cyber-attacks come in many guises, but help is at hand.
The National Cyber Security Centre is a Government organisation that offers support and advice to individuals and businesses about how to stay safe online. Businesses of all sizes are at particular risk of cyber-crime and would benefit from working towards Cyber Essentials, a Government approved scheme. By implementing just five core controls that protect against most cyber-attacks, you can ensure you are on the right track as well as demonstrating to your customers and suppliers that you are serious about cyber security.
Interested, concerned? Then contact Jo to find out how Clumber Consultancy's expertise as an IASME Certification Body can help you understand and secure your data, or read the full article by IASME here.