Cyber security
Staying safe online
More services are now available online, making life easier but also creating opportunities for scams. Criminals may try to contact you by email, text, phone or social media to obtain personal or financial information. Staying alert and taking a few simple precautions can help keep you safe.
Your privacy matters
Your privacy and security are important to us. We do not store residents’ personal details on our website.
If you need to share personal information with us, please use our official contact channels. If you receive a message claiming to be from us and you are unsure if it is genuine, contact us directly to check.
10 ways to stay safe online
From banking and shopping to keeping in touch with family and friends, many of us spend time online every day. Here are 10 simple tips to help protect yourself from online scams and cyber crime.
1. Use strong passwords
Choose passwords that are difficult to guess. Use a mix of letters, numbers and symbols, and avoid using personal information such as birthdays or pet names.
2. Use different passwords for different accounts
If one account is compromised, using unique passwords helps protect your other accounts from being accessed.
3. Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA)
Many websites and apps offer an extra layer of security by sending a code to your phone or email when you log in.
4. Be careful of unexpected emails and text messages
Scammers often send messages pretending to be trusted organisations. Never click on links or open attachments unless you are sure they are genuine.
5. Think before you share personal information
Be cautious about what you post online and avoid sharing sensitive information such as bank details, passwords or personal identification documents.
6. Keep your devices updated
Install software and security updates as soon as they become available. These updates often fix security weaknesses that criminals can exploit.
7. Use secure Wi-Fi connections
Avoid accessing sensitive accounts, such as online banking, when using public Wi-Fi. If you must use public Wi-Fi, avoid sharing personal information.
8. Watch out for fake websites
Before entering any information online, check that the website address is correct and look for the padlock symbol in your browser’s address bar.
9. Trust your instincts
If an offer looks too good to be true, or a message creates a sense of urgency or pressure, it could be a scam. Take time to check before taking action.
10. Report anything suspicious
If you think you’ve received a scam message or been the victim of fraud, report it and seek advice as soon as possible.