The Cyber Resilience Centre for the South West

🛍️ Shoppers at Risk: Retailers Must Step Up Cybersecurity Efforts 🛍️ As online shopping continues to grow, so does the risk of cybercrime targeting both shoppers and retailers. From phishing schemes to data breaches, cybercriminals are using sophisticated tactics to steal personal and financial data. Retailers need to strengthen their defenses, but shoppers also play a critical role in protecting themselves. What can shoppers do to protect against cybersecurity threats? 1. Use Strong Passwords: Ensure that your passwords are unique for each shopping site, and avoid easy-to-guess phrases. A password manager can help generate and store secure passwords. 2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Adding an extra layer of security to your accounts ensures that even if your password is compromised, hackers can’t easily access your data. 3. Shop on Secure Websites: Look for “https” in the URL and a padlock icon to ensure that your connection is encrypted and secure. 4. Be Wary of Phishing Scams: Be cautious of unsolicited emails or offers that seem too good to be true. Never click on links in suspicious emails—go directly to the retailer’s website instead. 5. Use Secure Payment Methods: Opt for secure payment methods such as credit cards or trusted payment services like PayPal, which offer added layers of protection and fraud monitoring. 6. Monitor Your Bank Statements: Regularly review your accounts for any suspicious activity and report unauthorized charges immediately. Retailers must do their part by investing in stronger security measures like encryption and fraud monitoring, but shoppers can stay safe by adopting these best practices when shopping online. At the South West Cyber Resilience Centre (SWCRC), we support both businesses and consumers in protecting themselves from cyber threats. Stay informed and vigilant, especially as the holiday shopping season approaches. 🔐 Learn more and sign up for free cybersecurity updates: https://swcrc.police.uk. #CyberSecurity #RetailSecurity #OnlineShopping #FraudPrevention #DataProtection #BusinessSecurity #ShopSafely #CyberResilience #SWCRC

📱 Think Twice Before Scanning That QR Code 📱 QR codes have become a convenient tool for accessing websites, menus, and making payments, but they’re also being exploited by cybercriminals to launch attacks. Scammers can easily create fake QR codes that direct users to malicious websites or download harmful malware to devices, leading to stolen personal or financial information. What should you watch out for when scanning QR codes? - Unfamiliar Sources: Avoid scanning QR codes from unknown or untrusted sources. Scammers often place fake codes in public spaces or send them via phishing emails. - Suspicious Redirects: After scanning a QR code, be cautious if it redirects you to an unexpected website or asks for personal information. Always verify the website before entering any details. - Secure Payments: QR codes used for payments can be altered to redirect funds to scam accounts. Double-check the payment information before completing any transactions. How can you protect yourself? 1. Preview URLs: Use QR scanning apps that allow you to preview the URL before opening it. 2. Update Your Security Software: Ensure your phone’s operating system and security apps are up to date to protect against malicious downloads. 3. Use Trusted QR Codes: Only scan QR codes from reputable sources, like official websites or businesses you trust. At the South West Cyber Resilience Centre (SWCRC), we’re here to help businesses and individuals navigate emerging threats like QR code scams. Stay vigilant and take simple steps to protect your personal and financial information. 🔐 Stay informed and protect your business by signing up for free cybersecurity updates: https://swcrc.police.uk. #CyberSecurity #QRCodeSafety #ScamAlert #BusinessSecurity #OnlineFraud #CyberResilience #SWCRC

🌐 Google’s New Partnership to Combat Online Scams 🌐 Google has launched a powerful new collaboration with law enforcement and cybersecurity organisations to take down online scams more effectively. This partnership leverages advanced technology, including artificial intelligence (AI) and data-sharing platforms, to identify and disrupt fraudulent activities. By working together, they aim to make the internet a safer place for everyone. How does Google’s new partnership work? - AI-Driven Scam Detection: Google is using AI to analyse patterns and detect scam websites, phishing attempts, and fraudulent ads more quickly. The AI can identify threats in real time, allowing for immediate action. - Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Google’s partnership with law enforcement agencies enables faster tracking and takedown of criminal networks behind scams. This global collaboration helps disrupt operations at a larger scale. - Data Sharing with Cybersecurity Experts: By sharing data with cybersecurity organisations, Google ensures that scam-related intelligence is disseminated rapidly across the industry, helping to protect businesses and individuals before scams have a chance to spread. How can businesses stay protected in the meantime? 1. Stay Up to Date: Regularly review emerging cyber threats and understand the latest scam tactics targeting businesses. 2. Implement Strong Cybersecurity Measures: Use security tools like multi-factor authentication (MFA), anti-phishing software, and secure firewalls to strengthen your defense. 3. Educate Your Team: Provide regular training to employees so they can recognise suspicious activity and respond appropriately. At the South West Cyber Resilience Centre (SWCRC), we’re helping businesses stay resilient against online threats. As Google's efforts expand, businesses should remain vigilant and take proactive measures to secure their digital presence. 🔐 Sign up for free cybersecurity updates and resources: https://swcrc.police.uk. #CyberSecurity #OnlineScams #GooglePartnership #AIinSecurity #PhishingProtection #BusinessSecurity #CyberResilience #SWCRC

🎃 Happy Halloween from the South West Cyber Resilience Centre! 👻 Here’s how to really scare your IT team… 🎃 In the spirit of Halloween, remember: nothing’s more frightening than bad cyber practices! Make sure admin access is only given to those who need it. Protect your organisation from a real nightmare! 🧛♂️ Stay safe (and spooky) online! 🕸️ #HappyHalloween #CyberResilience #CyberSecurity #ScaryCyberMistakes

Great to have so many businesses from Newton Abbot in the room this morning. Thank you all for attending and being an interactive audience!

📢 Exciting Morning at the Newton Abbot Chamber of Commerce! 🌐 Our very own Joe Ross is presenting today, sharing insights on cyber security and how businesses can better protect themselves in the digital age. It’s fantastic to be here connecting with local business leaders and helping to build a more cyber-resilient South West! We hope everyone has a valuable networking event, and don’t forget: cyber security is everyone’s business. Protecting your organisation starts with being informed and prepared. #CyberResilience #NewtonAbbotChamber #CyberSecurity #SouthWestBusiness #Networking #SWCRC

⚠️ Urgent Warning for Facebook and Gmail Users: Protect Your Accounts Now ⚠️ A new wave of phishing attacks is targeting Facebook and Gmail users, putting millions at risk of having their personal and financial data stolen. These scams trick users into clicking on fraudulent links or providing sensitive information, such as passwords or login credentials, which can then be used to take control of accounts. How can you protect your accounts? 1. Watch out for suspicious emails: Phishing emails often look like official communications but may have slight spelling errors, odd sender addresses, or urgent language. 2. Always verify before clicking any links. 3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of protection by enabling Two-Factor Authentication on your Facebook, Gmail, and other accounts. This ensures that even if your password is compromised, attackers can’t easily gain access. 4. Regularly check your account activity: Review your account settings and recent activity for any unusual logins or changes. If you notice anything suspicious, take action immediately. 5. Use strong, unique passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across accounts. Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords for each account. At the South West Cyber Resilience Centre (SWCRC), we’re helping businesses and individuals stay safe online. Don't wait until it's too late—take steps to protect your accounts and personal data today. 🔐 Stay informed and secure your business by signing up for free cybersecurity updates: https://swcrc.police.uk. #CyberSecurity #Phishing #AccountProtection #TwoFactorAuthentication #OnlineSafety #DataProtection #CyberResilience #SWCRC

The National Cyber Resilience Centre Group has released their latest CyberVersed Podcast with Trustify Cyber, one of the group's newest National Ambassador. Details to listen are in the post below.

🚨 Protect Your Personal Data: How People Search Sites Help Scammers Target You 🚨 Did you know that people search sites like Whitepages, Spokeo, and BeenVerified are goldmines for cybercriminals? They collect and sell personal information — from contact details to family connections — without your knowledge, making it easier for scammers to target you for phishing, identity theft, and more. Here’s how you can protect yourself: 1️⃣ Opt-Out: Regularly check these sites and request the removal of your data. 2️⃣ Limit Data Sharing: Be selective about the online services and tools you use; many collect and sell your information. 3️⃣ Use Throwaway Emails: For online sign-ups, consider burner numbers and masked emails. 4️⃣ Switch to Private Browsers: Opt for browsers and search engines that prioritise privacy. It’s time to take control of your digital footprint. Protect your personal data and reduce the risk of falling victim to scams. 🛡️ Stay informed and secure your business by signing up for free cybersecurity updates: https://swcrc.police.uk. #CyberSecurity #DataPrivacy #SmallBusiness #DigitalSafety #OnlineProtection #SWCRC #CyberAwareness #StaySafeOnline

💬 #FraudAlert ⚠ A big thank you to the Devon and Cornwall Police Cyber Protect Officers for sharing this important update! 🚨 We’ve recently seen a rise in scam texts pretending to issue parking fines. Remember, fraudsters often create a sense of urgency to prompt quick responses, so stay vigilant. 🔹 Be cautious with unexpected texts or emails—whether they mention fines, discounts, or requests for help. These messages might encourage you to click on links or make payments, download apps, or even purchase gift cards. If you’re unsure, contact the person or organisation directly using a verified contact method. 🔹 Report and block: Forward suspicious texts to 7726 (free reporting service) and block the sender if possible. Do not respond or click on any links. 🔹 Victim of fraud? Contact your bank or building society immediately and report to Action Fraud via www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. Stay alert and safe! Thank you, Devon and Cornwall Police, for keeping our community informed. #CyberAwareness #FraudPrevention #CyberResilience