As the UK’s biggest celebration of online safety, the day aims to raise awareness about internet safety, encouraging everyone to use technology responsibly, respectfully, critically, and creatively.

This year’s theme is ‘Too good to be true? Protecting yourself and others from scams online.’ We’re using this opportunity to strengthen our defences at work and beyond as a reminder to stay vigilant, question suspicious offers, and help others navigate the digital world safely.

Here are some essential tips to help you stay safer, both at work and at home. Keep reading to protect yourself and those around you!

HOW TO STAY SAFER AT WORK AND HOME

Safer at Work: Strengthening Cybersecurity & Scam Awareness

The internet drives our innovation, but scammers and cybercriminals are always evolving. That’s why we continue to update our Information Security measures, ensuring that our business, clients, employees, family and friends are protected.

🔍Spotting & Avoiding Online Scams

- If it looks too good to be true, it probably is! Be wary of emails, messages, or deals that seem suspicious.
- Think before you click! Phishing attacks trick users into giving away credentials or downloading malware.
- Verify sources and never trust unsolicited messages claiming to be from banks, tech support, or prize giveaways.

🔑 Strengthening Password & Account Security

- Use a password manager to create and store complex passwords.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on all critical accounts.
- Never reuse passwords. Every account should have a unique login.

💻 Safe Use of Devices & Digital Tools

- Only use company-approved hardware, software, and online tools.
- Never install software or create online accounts without IT approval.
- Lock your device when stepping away from it, both in the office or when working remotely.

🔒 Handling & Protecting Information

- Treat all data as confidential.
- Avoid unapproved cloud storage.
- Be cautious with AI tools. Never input sensitive information into non-approved AI applications.

Safer at Home: Helping Others Stay Scam-Savvy

- Scammers target everyone, but not everyone knows how to spot the warning signs. You can help protect friends and family by sharing what we know:
- Teach them about phishing and help them recognise fraudulent messages.
- Encourage safe password habits, recommend and assist in setting up a password manager.
- Encourage people to do Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) setups, especially for banking purposes and email accounts.
- Raise awareness about social media scams, like fake giveaways, cloned profiles, and misleading ads.

🚨 Reporting Incidents & Staying Up to Date

- Even with the best precautions, incidents still happen. The faster we report them, the less damage they can cause.
- Report any suspicious emails, scams, or breaches to IT immediately.
- Stay informed with regular cybersecurity training & phishing simulations.
- Follow company updates, blogs, and emails to stay ahead of evolving threats.

🔎 Stay Alert, Stay Secure

Safer Internet Day is a reminder to think before we click, verify before we trust, and protect ourselves and those around us. We hope the tips above prove useful!