October is traditionally associated with half-term break, Halloween events and pumpkin spices. It is also an important month to promote as “Cyber Security Awareness Month” around the world. From ‘phishing’ to ‘ransomware’, cyber crimes can take several forms. Each cybercriminal will have a different approach, making it difficult to identify which emails or links are genuine, and which may put you at risk.

Cyber Security Awareness Month is an annual event that draws attention to the danger hackers pose to organisations and individuals using the internet.

It was reported that during the Covid-19 pandemic, cybercrime increased by 600% – such a staggering statistic indicates the dangers of digital transformation.

Here are some key actions to help protect your cyber-self:

• A password confirmation page displaying a strong password.
  Password strength: Any account with a weak password can be hacked in seconds. Create passwords that prevent cyber attacks.
• 12 characters and up: A longer, complex password is a stronger one. Use minimum 12- character passwords with upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
• The sentence method: Make a memorable password based on a simple sentence. For example, use the first two letters of each word: Never Forget Your Password Again! = NeFoYoPaAg!
• One password per account: Create unique passwords for every account, from your email to your social media, and use a password manager to keep them all in one place.
• Beware of phishing: Globally, over 90% of cyber attacks start with phishing via an email or message. Recognise common signs:
• Typos and misspelling: Look out for typos like a misspelled email address, incorrect company name, or wrong date.
• Links and attachments: Before you click links, hover over them to confirm their destination. If a message requires you to download attachments, it should raise a red flag.
• Urgency: If an email or text says you need to act quickly, evaluate the message and sender before you do anything else.

Stay safe, stay protected.