The Cyber Resilience Centre for the South West

🛡️ 6 Signs Your Device Might Be Infected with Malware – and What to Do About It 🛡️ With the rise of sophisticated cyber threats, it is critical to recognise the warning signs of malware on your devices. Here are some telltale signs that your device might be compromised and what steps you can take to protect your data. 🚩 1. Unusually Slow Performance Malware consumes your device’s resources, leading to sudden slowdowns. If clearing your RAM doesn’t help, malware could be the culprit. 🚩 2. Frequent Crashes or Reboots Unexpected crashes could signal a cybercriminal has gained access to your device. If you’ve ruled out other causes, spyware might be lurking. 🚩 3. Persistent Pop-Ups Seeing pop-up ads, especially when offline? This could be adware, designed to flood your screen with malicious content. 🚩 4. New Toolbars or Homepage If your browser’s homepage has changed without your input, malware might be steering you toward harmful sites. 🚩 5. Unwanted Redirects Being redirected to suspicious sites is a classic sign of malware designed to steal your information. 🚩 6. Scareware Alerts Fake antivirus alerts are a tactic to trick you into buying “protection.” Be cautious, as these alerts are often the malware itself. 🔑 What Can You Do? 1. Remove Suspicious Programs: Identify and delete any unfamiliar apps. 2. Disconnect from the Internet: Stop the spread and limit data leaks. 3. Use Safe Mode: Isolate and remove malware more effectively. 4. Run Antivirus Software: A reputable antivirus can detect and eliminate threats. 5. Consider a VPN: While not a direct solution for malware, a VPN can enhance overall digital security by encrypting your online activity. By staying vigilant and regularly updating your security practices, you can keep your devices and data safe from the growing threat of malware. #CyberSecurity #MalwareProtection #DigitalSafety #BusinessSecurity #CyberAwareness

🔒 Cybersecurity Alert: Creepy Signs You’re Being Targeted in a Cyber Attack As cyber threats become more advanced, it’s essential to stay informed about the warning signs that could mean your devices are being targeted. With attacks increasing globally, especially here in the UK, even everyday users are at risk. Recent events like Microsoft’s 10-hour service outage, which was caused by a cyber attack, highlight the growing frequency and sophistication of these threats. 🚨 Here’s What to Watch Out For: • Strange Activity on Your Device: Notice unexpected mouse movements or random words being typed when you’re not in control? Hackers may have gained access. • Unusual Apps or Programmes: If new, unfamiliar apps appear on your device, this could be malware installed by a cybercriminal. • Odd Messages from Your Accounts: Friends or colleagues receiving strange texts or social media posts from you? It might be a sign your accounts have been compromised. • Redirected Internet Searches: If your web searches are being redirected to unexpected sites, this is often a sign of a malware infection. Stay Safe Online: • Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Never reuse passwords across multiple accounts. • Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Adding extra layers of protection can block unauthorised access. • Stay Vigilant for Data Breaches: Tools like “Have I Been Pwned” can help you check if your information has been compromised. As we rely more on digital platforms, both for business and our personal lives, it’s crucial to remain aware and proactive about potential threats. Don’t wait until it’s too late – stay informed and keep your systems secure. #CyberSecurity #DataProtection #CyberResilience #BusinessSecurity #Phishing #UKBusiness

Do you think that you have been falling victim to #PensionFraud? ☎️Contact your pension provider immediately and report it to @actionfrauduk online at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. If you're in Scotland, you can report it to Police Scotland on 101. #ProtectYourPension

🚨 Android Users Beware: A New Banking Trojan is Targeting Android 13+ Devices Threat intelligence experts have identified a dangerous new threat called BlankBot. This stealthy Android banking trojan can capture your sensitive data, including SMS messages, banking details, and even your device’s lock pattern or PIN. This malware has one more dangerous feature: it’s undetected by most antivirus software. ⚠️ What Makes BlankBot So Dangerous? • Disguised as Utility Apps: BlankBot spreads by posing as seemingly harmless apps, making it easy for users to unknowingly grant dangerous permissions. • Bypasses Android 13’s Restrictions: Once installed, BlankBot uses clever tactics to gain accessibility permissions, enabling complete control over your device. • Persistence and Stealth: After infiltrating your device, the malware prevents access to crucial settings, allowing it to maintain control and avoid detection. 🛡️ How to Protect Yourself: 1. Stick to Official App Stores: Only download apps from trusted sources like Google Play Store, and avoid side-loading apps from third-party websites. 2. Be Cautious with Permissions: Always question why an app is requesting certain permissions, especially accessibility permissions, which can grant full control over your device. 3. Update Your Security Tools: Ensure that Google Play Protect is enabled to detect and block known malware threats. According to a statement from Google, the company’s detection systems are already blocking this malware through Google Play Protect, but users must remain vigilant as BlankBot continues to evolve. Stay informed, stay secure. Don’t let your device fall victim to this growing threat. #CyberSecurity #AndroidSecurity #MobileThreats #DataProtection #AI #TechUpdates

Amazing evening celebrating achieving Fellowship of BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT alongside Joseph Ross FBCS, and all our fantastic friends achieving Fellow this last year. Congratulations! Thank you Holly Porter, Rashik Parmar, Simone Steel CITP FBCS, Rich Corbridge (FBCS), Prof Adam Beaumont DL, Julia Adamson MBE and Nicole Symes Frazer MBCS for all your Inspiration and support! 👏

🙅Don’t be rushed or pressured into making a life changing decision about your pension. Remember, legitimate organisations will never pressure you into investing on the spot. 🔗Learn more 👇 https://lnkd.in/eSiB-2HV #ProtectYourPension

If you’re contacted out of the blue about your pension, stop and think. It could pro-tect you and your money. Always reject any unexpected investment opportunities involving your pension. 🔗Learn more 👉 https://lnkd.in/eSiB-2HV #ProtectYourPension

🌟 Join Us at the Devon Women in Business Networking Brunch! 🌟 We are delighted to be guest speakers at the upcoming Devon Women in Business Networking Brunch on October 23rd at Mount Kelly College, #Tavistock! Our CEO, Steve, will be sharing practical tips and valuable resources to help you strengthen your online security and help you stay safer in the digital world. 💻🔒 It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn, connect, and enjoy a relaxed morning with like-minded professional women from across #Devon. Don’t miss out – grab your tickets and join us for a morning of insights, networking, and collaboration! We can’t wait to see you there! 🌼 #SWCRC #DWIB #WomenInBusiness #CyberResilience #Networking #CommunitySupport #DevonEvents DWIB Networking Brunch - Tavistock - Devon Women In Business

🔄 We’re excited to be part of this upcoming Cyber Security Workshop on Thursday, 26th September, with the SW Regional Cyber Crime Unit! Join us for a hands-on experience to understand the practicalities of cyber security decision-making in a safe environment. Plus, by attending, you’ll also be supporting Trevi, a charity doing incredible work for vulnerable women and children. Don’t miss out – there are still a few places left! 👇

🤔 Did you know accessing your pension before 55 could result in a significant tax charge? You could end up paying up to 55% in taxes from your pension provider if they make an ‘unauthorised payment. For more information visit: https://lnkd.in/dry5Mju #ProtectYourPension