October is Cyber Security month  – and we’re supporting this by tweeting security tips and suggestions throughout the month – just to remind you of all the things you can do to keep yourself safe when working and playing online.

Today – the 18th October – is Get Safe Online Day in the UK – so to mark the occasion we’re doing a blog post to summerise a few simple steps you can follow that could really make a difference to your online security (if you already have these under control – have a gold star).

• Review the passwords you use on your online accounts: Make sure they are strong enough and that you are not using the same ones for more than one account. Consider how you are going to remember them all – such as using an online password safe.
• Check your social media privacy settings. Make sure your information and updates are seen only by those you trust.
• Update your operating system and software programs/apps on your computer, mobile phone and tablet if you have been prompted to do so. It takes only a few minutes and with your mobile devices, you can even do it while you are asleep.
• Back up your information – using reputable, secure cloud backup is a good way to save all your documents, photos, music, emails and other irreplaceable files.
• Check that your internet security software and apps are up to date and switched on.

In the UK

• If you have lost money, report it to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud reporting centre by calling 0300 123 20 40 or by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk
• If you are a victim of online abuse or harassment, you should report it to your local police force

For more advice see Get Safe Online.