Cybercrime is on the increase. Most people know this but are not sure how it may affect them and what they can do about it.

Criminals are becoming very sophisticated and can impersonate banks and official bodies where they know the public will be concerned to hear from them. However, do no trust anyone who contacts you by phone or email unexpectedly. If what they say is something, you want you want to follow up then find the proper phone number and call the back.

However, do not do it right away as sometimes a scammer leaves the line open so when you think you are calling your bank you are just speaking to the scammer. So, if you can leave it a few minutes and if not use another phone from a relative or friend.

Most banks have their phone number on the back of their card.

If you do encounter a scam report it to Action Fraud https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/.  They will not respond to your specific problem but will put together a picture on who is doing what and be able to take action where they have a range of complaints.

Social Media Hacking

This is where someone is able to log into your account. They may then ask you for money to regain access as they will change the contact details.

So, you must set good passwords that are harder for them to hack. Ideally over 8 letters and including at least one Capital letter and a character such as ! or£.

Also have two factor authentication. Who has not had a message saying what your Facebook code is on their phone and wonder why it is there. It is because someone has got past the password but because of the 2FA cannot get further.

Account Recovery

If you do lose control of your social media tell the company e.g., Instagram and change the password on any accounts where you use the same password. Ignore offers from people offering to help you recover your account. They are most probably another scam.

Phishing Attacks

This is where you are sent and email or text that requires information or a link for you to click. Never click on links in emails from someone you do not know. You may be downloading a virus.

If you get an email, you are uncertain about hover over the email address and see where it has really come from. It should be name or info/office @ the name of the organisation. You will be surprised where some have come from.

GDPR outcome

If you are hacked, you usually have to report this to the ICO and probably tell the client you have lost control of their data. The outcome will not be good for you. At least make sure you have the right documents in place.

Contact info@barkleylegal.co.uk for any help.

Remember cybercrime is on the increase and your business is at risk.