Following the ransomware cyber attack on Friday 12 May which affected the NHS and is believed to have affected other organisations globally, the City of London Police’s National Fraud Intelligence Bureau has issued an alert urging both individuals and businesses to follow protection advice immediately and in the coming days.

Ransomware is a form of malicious software (Malware) that enables cyber criminals to remotely lock down files on your computer or mobile device. Criminals will use ransomware to extort money from you (a ransom), before they restore access to your files. There are many ways that ransomware can infect your device, whether it be a link to a malicious website in an unsolicited email, or through a security vulnerability in a piece of software you use.

Key Protect messages for businesses to protect themselves from ransomware:
*Install system and application updates on all devices as soon as they become available.
*Install anti-virus software on all devices and keep it updated.
*Create regular backups of your important files to a device that isn’t left connected to your network as any malware infection could spread to that too

The National Cyber Security Centre’s technical guidance includes specific software patches to use that will prevent uninfected computers on your network from becoming infected with the “WannaCry” Ransomware: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/ransomware-latest-ncsc-guidance

For additional in-depth technical guidance on how to protect your organisation from ransomware, details can be found here: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/protecting-your-organisation-ransomware

Key Protect advice for individuals:
*Install system and application updates on all devices as soon as they become available.
*Install anti-virus software on all devices and keep it updated.
*Create regular backups of your important files to a device (such as an external hard drive or memory stick) that isn’t left connected to your computer as any malware infection could spread to that too.
*Only install apps from official app stores, such as Google’s Play Store, or Apple’s App Store as they offer better levels of protection than some 3rd party stores. Jailbreaking, rooting, or disabling any of the default security features of your device will make it more susceptible to malware infections.

Phishing/smishing
Fraudsters may exploit this high profile incident and use it as part of phishing/smishing campaigns. We urge people to be cautious if they receive any unsolicited communications from the NHS. The protect advice for that is the following:
*An email address can be spoofed. Don’t open attachments or click on the links within any unsolicited emails you receive, and never respond to emails that ask for your personal or financial details.
*The sender’s name and number in a text message can be spoofed, so even if the message appears to be from an organisation you know of, you should still exercise caution, particularly if the texts are asking you to click on a link or call a number.
*Don’t disclose your personal or financial details during a cold call, and remember that the police and banks will never ring you and ask you to verify your PIN, withdraw your cash, or transfer your money to another “safe” account.

If you have been a victim of fraud or cyber crime, please report it to Action Fraud at http://www.actionfraud.police.uk/

Christmas Shopping
As we go out for that last minute shopping the Police have issued their seasonal advice, advice that is of course applicable all year round:
• Make sure your handbag is closed and you carry it close to your side, so a pick-pocket would find it difficult to slide their hand in without you knowing;
• Never leave a bag unattended in a trolley, even if for a couple of seconds;
• Try and keep wallets in an inside pocket and out of sight from a potential pick-pocket;
• Keep your PIN number confidential never disclose your PIN number to anyone including the bank and police;
• When entering your PIN number at a terminal ensure no one can see you enter it.
• Try to pay for items on a debit card rather than carrying large amounts of cash. If this is not possible keep cash to a minimum.
• Before you leave your car, ensure all windows and doors are closed and locked;
• Avoid leaving your purchases and presents in your vehicle. If you must make sure they are not on display, store in the boot and make sure the car is locked;
• If possible park your car in a well-lit car park, preferably one that’s attended;
• Think about the items you are buying someone, are there any security products you could purchase to help them keep it safe. i.e. if buying a bike think about also giving a decent ‘D’ lock.
‘Nottingham Knockers’
The door to door salesmen or ‘Nottingham Knockers’ are back and even made it into the ’Advertiser’! Please remember that this kind of activity requires a valid pedlar’s certificate which is issued by police in the seller’s home area. If you receive a visit please remember the following safety tips:
• Always use the door chain when answering the door, if you are not sure do not open the door;
• Always check the credentials of unknown callers. Do not phone the number on the ID card, use a phone book or a bill.;
• Never employ cold-calling doorstep traders or engage with cold callers on the phone;
• Do not keep substantial sums of money in the home;
• Always keep front and back doors locked;
• LOCK STOP CHAIN and CHECK – if unsure do not open the door;
• Report any suspicious callers or activity to the police immediately;
• Keep an eye on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, friends and family;
• Call 101 to advise of any unexpected callers – this gives Police a better chance at building a picture of where potential criminals are operating.

Have a Very Happy and Safe Christmas!

David James

Older motorists in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are being invited to follow in the footsteps of TV broadcasters Jennie Bond and John Sergeant by attending any of the ‘one-stop shop’ awareness events organised by the Older Drivers Forum next week.
From Monday September 26 until Friday September 30, the Older Drivers Forum will be hosting events focusing on giving advice and information to mature motorists and their interested friends and family. It is free to attend, no appointment is necessary and visitors can call in anytime between 9.30am and 3pm.
The date for Andover is Monday 26th September in The Chantry Centre.
The Older Drivers Forum is about keeping drivers aged 55 + on the road safely for longer, will a stronger focus on those 70 and over. We give advice not only for older drivers, but also for friends, families and GP’s. At the event you will find advice on brushing up your skills, booking a driving assessment, getting advice on health and wellbeing issues, renewing your licence and much more.
As of January 2016 there are just over 4.5 million people holding a driving licence who are aged 70 and above and this will double in the next 20 years.
Drivers aged 70 are no more likely to be the cause of a crash than any other drivers. But once over 70, we may be more likely to be at fault, particularly where right-of-way violations are involved. We may also start to suffer from aged related frailty and our mental and physical abilities may reduce.