What is the risk of cyber attacks to Warwickshire?

We live in a digital-focused world where individuals, businesses, charities and our government all rely on digital technology and online capability to deliver essential services. As a result, any sector of our economy and society that uses IT networks and systems is vulnerable to the threat.

Cyber criminals exploit weaknesses in online systems, usually for financial gain. They use technology to commit crimes, such as hacking to steal data, and can use the same technology to increase the scale and reach of other crimes such as carrying out fraudulent financial transactions.

How could cyber attacks
affect you?

As we depend more on technology, cyber dangers have progressed and grown more widespread, presenting a significant risk to
people and businesses.

  • Disruption to digital life in general
  • Loss of income / financial impacts
  • Loss of sensitive information
  • Theft of personal information
  • Reputational damage
  • Disruption of computer networks
  • Disruption to your business

Follow these practical steps so you and your family can be
better prepared for a cyber attack

1

Keep your personal information protected

Use strong and different passwords for your online accounts. Keep your passwords to yourself and do not share them. It is important to ensure that the password you use on email and backup accounts is different from any other passwords you use on other accounts.

2

Don’t leave your devices unattended without locking them.

3

Turn on 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) for all your online accounts

This gives you additional protection. This makes it even more difficult for cyber criminals to access your accounts.
4

Back up your data

Make your data recoverable in the event that your IT equipment is compromised. Ensure backups are regularly  maintained on a separate device or in the cloud.

5

Always update your devices

These regular updates contain security updates and your accounts and data remain vulnerable without them.
6

Remain vigilant against phishing scams

Be cautious when clicking on links. Do not give out private information (such as bank details or passwords), reply to text messages, download attachments or click on any links in emails if you’re not sure they’re genuine.
7

Access the advice available from Warwickshire Police’s Cyber Crime Unit at:

www.cybercrimealerts.com This allows you to access:

  • E-Learning for Small Business Owners, Employees, Charities and Schools
  • Advice for Businesses from the NCSC with the direct download to the Small Business Guide, Response and Recovery Guide, Exercise in a box and Board Toolkit
  • Directly report Suspicious Emails, Texts and Website
  • Real time Alerts on the latest cyber threats

How to prepare
your business

Warwickshire LRF

What is being done to become
better prepared?

We work together to:

  • Develop and maintain a multi-agency Cyber Group and Cyber Response Plan.
  • Assess the impact across interdependent partner organisations.
  • Coordinate support to enable service delivery.

Some of our partners