National Cybersecurity Awareness Month - Protect Yourself Online

Research shows 48% of the population has been targeted by a scam – and around half of the victims have reported suffering ill health as a result with older and vulnerable residents being most at risk.​

In Derbyshire the average age of a mail scam victim is 77 and 90% have recently been widowed or live alone. Bereavement, isolation and loneliness are common factors. Be aware of those around you that may be vulnerable. 

Cyber Security Essentials

​Passwords

• Always create strong passwords using a mix of upper & lower case letters, numbers & symbols.
• Avoid common words or personal information
• Avoid using the same password on multiple accounts
• Enable two factor authentication (2FA) – this helps ensure only the authorised account holder can login
• Change your password regularly

Phishing Emails

• Be cautious of unexpected or suspicious emails (especially those asking for sensitive information)
• Look for spelling mistakes
• Unfamiliar email addresses
• email addresses and weblinks that don’t match the sender’s name or company
• Odd attachments
• Do not click any links unless you’re certain of the source

Advice & guidance

Cyber security advice for you & your family | National Cyber Security Centre

Help for people who’ve been scammed

• Derbyshire Safeguarding Adults Board
• Think Jessica is a Derbyshire-based charity set up to help and support people affected by scammers and also to highlight the effects on victims.
• ​Age UK has a national helpline, telephone: 0800 169 6565 or you can contact Age UK Derby and Derbyshire which can provide a wide range of help and support for local older people and carers. Residents can call the local service, telephone: 01773 768240.​

• Derbyshire Victim Services offer free and confidential support to victims of crime, telephone: 0808 612 6505.​ They also provide a number of services to help older people live safely and independently, increase confidence and reduce social isolation.​

• The Little Book of Big Scams ​
• Avoiding scams information guide – Age UK