Readers of this blog must be aware that we are all under constant attack from the cybercriminals – it’s a popular topic. From dodgy emails to suspicious text messages, threatening phone calls and even links on a LinkedIn message, you have to keep your guard up on a daily basis.
Is it just something we have to learn to live with?
Spam filters and security measures go a long way to protecting you, and education will help you to recognise a phishing attack, but is there anything else you can do to fight against the hackers?
Our good friend Richard Tubb who writes on the IT support industry in his blog (check out www.tubblog.co.uk – it’s worth a read) has pointed out that we don’t need to be passive victims. He has shared with us three ways in which you can report scams. By being on high alert, you may also be able to reduce your risk of being ensnared in the hacker’s trap.
Here are Richard Tubb’s three pieces of reporting advice:
Spam and phishing/smishing text messages: you can report spam text messages directly to your mobile phone provider using the short freephone code 7726. You can learn more about this in this very comprehensive Which Magazine article.
Phishing Emails: The National Cyber Security Centre is keen to learn about hacker attacks. You can tell them all about it at the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS).
Cyber Breaches: You may be unfortunate enough to catch the criminals red-handed while the attack is actually taking place. If you are a business, charity or other organisation which is suffering a live cyber attack (in progress), you can call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 immediately. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
So, even though you may not be saving Gotham City, making the effort to report and block an attack could make the difference for another business. You could be a cybercrime-fighting superhero!
If you would like to educate your staff about phishing emails, give Computer Troubleshooters a call on 01732 300064. We have a great solution to teach and test your team.
Please stay safe, and don’t be afraid to shout for help if you need it.