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Simple steps can protect public from cyber fraud

Security Minister James Brokenshire has launched the first stage of a new £4 million campaign to raise awareness of how to stay safe online.

The campaign is part of the Government’s National Cyber Security Programme.

The Home Office, which is leading the campaign, is inviting bids from media, PR and creative agencies to work on a communications campaign with the aim of educating consumers and small businesses on how to avoid falling victim to sophisticated cyber criminals.

Cyber fraud

This campaign draws in expertise from Cabinet Office, Department of Business, Innovation and Skills and partners from the business sector including Get Safe Online. It will be launched in the autumn.

Security Minister James Brokenshire said:

The digitisation of the UK economy has made our lives easier and has created huge opportunities, but it has also created individual security risks as well. If we are to meet these new challenges it’s essential we step up our efforts to stay safe online.

The threat of cyber crime is real and the criminals involved are organised and driven by profit.

By making small changes British businesses can remain competitive in the global economy and consumers can have greater confidence using the internet.

Online security

The National Fraud Authority (NFA) has shown that minor improvements to online behaviour amongst people and small businesses could prevent significant losses online. Many cyber incidents can be prevented by adopting simple steps such as not sharing passwords. More information on how to protect yourself online can be found at Get Safe Online

An invitation to tender is now on the Government Procurement Service’s online portal which agencies on the Government procurement frameworks can access.

If you think you have been a victim of fraud you should report it to Action Fraud or call 0300 123 2040.

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