Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (Commissioner), David Allen, is encouraging those who received new gadgets for Christmas to protect them from viruses.
Most devices now link to the internet, so some tips to help you stay safe include:
- Purchasing virus protection for your device to ensure that threats are highlighted to you.
- If the device is for children, setting up parental controls ensures that they are using age-appropriate apps, manage in-app purchases and to help keep track of who your child is talking to.
- Ensure any Bluetooth connections are secure in the settings to reduce the risk of strangers accessing your devices.
Commissioner David Allen, said: “Items such as laptops, phones and tablets have become a staple present at Christmas so it’s imperative that we ensure all our electronics that can be connected to the internet, have some form of anti-virus software on them.
“We need to know how to protect ourselves and our more vulnerable members of the family for scammers and criminals – prevention is the best key to protection when it comes to technology.
“I commission Get Safe Online in Cumbria to provide information and advice on all aspects of online safety and I would recommend everyone visit their website to find out more on how to keep themselves safe - Get Safe Online | The UK's leading Online Safety Advice Resource.
“I hope you all had a safe Christmas online and a Happy New Year.”
If you wish to report to police you can do so online at Report a crime | Cumbria Police. You can also phone on 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.