James Lyne, Global Head of Security Research, Sophos, said: “Sophos has partnered with Government to support Cyber Streetwise because we believe it’s imperative for both consumers and small businesses to take action to protect themselves online.”

“Consumers and SMEs alike are finding new ways to interact online, including via a greater range of devices, but with this enhanced technology comes risk. SophosLabs finds over 30,000 new infected websites distributing malware every day and, contrary to popular belief, the majority – around 80% – are legitimate small business websites that have been hacked. It’s therefore vital that small businesses in particular get the basics of security right – from installing antivirus to regularly updating and patching software, using complex passwords and protecting data.”

The Cyber Streetwise website – www.cyberstreetwise.com – offers a range of interactive resources for SMEs and consumers to gain impartial advice on how to protect themselves online. Sophos, which has provided security expertise and content for the Cyberstreetwise site, is also pushing visitors from its own dedicated web page – www.sophos.com/cyber-street – to the Cyber Streetwise website.

James Lyne continued: “Those who don’t put basic security measures in place are leaving themselves exposed to attackers capable of silently installing malicious code on their systems without permission. We are proud to have been asked to support and to provide content for Cyber Streetwise, which will play a vital role in encouraging businesses and consumers to adopt safer behaviours online and to take the fight to cyber criminals by improving their online security.”

Cyber Streetwise is urging people to take five actions in order to protect themselves and others from cyber crime:

1. use strong, memorable passwords
2. install anti-virus software on new devices
3. check privacy settings on social media
4. shop safely online – always ensuring to check online retail sites are secure
5. download software and application patches when prompted

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