Attacks on computer networks are among the biggest threats to the UK, Theresa May said ahead of the publication of a new National Security Strategy.
Cyber terrorism was a “new and growing” danger, the home secretary said.
What does this mean to those of who use computers at home and work?
What should business owners do to safeguard their businesses?
Cybercrime is one of the fastest-growing criminal activities. It covers a huge range of illegal activity including financial scams, computer hacking, downloading pornographic images, virus attacks, stalking by e-mail and creating websites that promote racial hatred.
Caution is your best defence.
What to do in your business –
· Have a policy for computer use and make sure everybody understands its importance.
· Maintain your computers, do not forget servers, networks and firewall.
· Implement extra safeguards which ensure that your policies are mandatory and monitored.
· Never keep personal or confidential information on portable devices (eg USB memory sticks or laptops) unless protected against unauthorised access.
· Always treat business information as you would wish your details to be handled by your bank, government departments, etc.
· Never access your businesses from the internet except on a secure connection (look for the browser’s locked padlock symbol)
· Secure your wireless network.
What to do on your computer –
· Keep your passwords private and don’t tell anyone, not even your boss.
· Make passwords longer than eight characters, include a variety of letters, numbers, and symbols, and change it regularly.
· Keep your computer up to date; most programs include options which make this very easy.
· Only add applications you fully trust to a computer, Facebook or your phone; some of them access your private information. Delete any applications you do not use.
What to do on the internet –
· Use the security and privacy controls offered by the sites you use and regularly monitor any activity.
· Never tell a stranger any personal things about yourself or your family like your address, phone number, date of birth.
· Don’t add anyone you don’t know to your friend list, even if they say they know you. If you don’t know them, don’t add them.
· If you are writing a blog, be careful what you write in it. Don’t give away too many details about yourself.
Finally, if in doubt – ask…
