Nuneaton MP Marcus Jones has given his backing to a new campaign aimed to keep individuals and small businesses safe online.
‘Be Cyber Streetwise’ was launched this week and is designed to help people and small businesses protect themselves against the threat of cyber criminals. The campaign is part of the Government’s National Cyber Security Programme and comes at a time as an increasing number of people use the internet on laptops, tablets and smartphones.
A recent National Cyber Security Consumer Tracker suggests more than half of the population are not taking simple steps to protect themselves online. Whilst 94 per cent of people believe that it is their personal responsibility to ensure a safe internet experience, the research highlights:
- Only 44 per cent always install internet security software on new equipment;
- Only 37 per cent download updates and patches for personal computers when prompted – falling to 21 per cent for smartphones and mobile devices;
- Less than a third habitually use complex passwords to protect online accounts; and
- 57 per cent do not check websites are secure before making a purchase.
The Town’s MP is now urging local people and businesses to take five simple steps to better protect themselves and their personal information:
- Use strong, memorable passwords;
- Install anti-virus software on new devices;
- Check privacy settings on social media;
- Shop safely online – always ensuring to check online retail sites are secure; and
- Download software and application patches when prompted.
Commenting, Marcus said: “Online security is a growing problem and so I’m pleased to give my support to this campaign in an effort to encourage people and businesses to take sensible precautions to protect themselves, and their data, online.
“This campaign aims to change the way people view online safety and to provide people with the skills and knowledge needed to take control of their own cyber security. I would urge people to visit the campaign website at www.cyberstreetwise.com.”