Stopping criminals hacking into your bank account or protecting your social media sites from fraudsters are just two of the many aims of Wiltshire Police. 

The force has launched Cyber Security Awareness Month throughout October during which it will be posting top tips to remind people how to stay safe online.

Using unique passwords, additional security levels like Two Factor Authentication, regularly backing up data and keeping on top of software updates are some of the areas people need to think about when using computers, tablets and smart phones.

Detective Sergeant Phil Nash, from the Digital Investigations and Intelligence Unit (DIIU) at Wiltshire Police, said: “In our busy lives, where being online is part of everyday work and downtime, it’s easy to forget or become complacent around cyber security. 

“We all do it. However, this possible chink in the armour is often how criminals get into people’s private social media accounts, bank details and other online systems to steal identities, manipulate social media accounts and even take money. 

“Cyber Security Awareness Month is a good way of reminding us all of what we should do to keep our passwords and accounts safe from criminals.

To report cyber-crimes contact Action Fraud via www.actionfraud.police.uk/ or call 0300 123 2040.

More information can be found at www.wiltshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/online-fraud/cyber-crime-fraud/