21 March 2016
Islanders are being reminded that, while businesses and individuals in Jersey are reaping the benefits of being online, it is important that they remain aware of the risks of cybercrime and, where possible, take appropriate steps to protect themselves.
Cybercrime is increasing internationally, with the UK reporting an average of 8,000 cyber incidents per month. The most recent reports of cybercrime in the Channel Islands have occurred in the last few weeks as local businesses faced exposure to ‘ransomware’. Ransomware is a type of malware that restricts access to the infected computer’s resources (such as important files), with the victim then being asked to pay a ransom to have the restriction removed.
Action Fraud website
By informing themselves about the potential risks, Islanders can help to protect their interests on the internet, whether safely making online transactions, booking travel or operating a business. The Action Fraud website and Jersey’s own Fraud Prevention Forum website provide a wide array of resources, ranging from information on types of fraud to support and prevention services (including alerts). Whether acting from an individual or a business owner perspective, Islanders are encouraged to visit these websites.
The Action Fraud website provides the opportunity to report any actual, attempted or suspected online fraud. However, the States of Jersey Police (SoJP) and Jersey’s Fraud Prevention Forum request that Islanders report the event either directly to the SoJP or via the Fraud Prevention Forum’s dedicated email address (scams500@police.je). This helps to ensure that the relevant authorities are aware of the event first and are therefore able to take appropriate action in the quickest possible time, rather than having to wait for Action Fraud to report the event back to the Island.
Cyber Security Task Force
To further protect Jersey’s interests in the cybersecurity arena, the Government of Jersey has set up a Cyber Security Task Force (CSTF). The CSTF is a joint task force bringing together the enforcement and high-tech crime unit of the States of Jersey Police, Government representatives (including experts managing the States of Jersey governmental IT systems), the Jersey Financial Services Commission, Digital Jersey and the Office of the Information Commissioner. The CSTF is pivotal in driving Jersey’s cybersecurity agenda, securing its governmental and critical infrastructure, as well as businesses’ and Islanders’ digital presence, and ultimately enabling Jersey to thrive in today’s digital world.
One of the objectives of the CSTF is to inform the Government’s developing cybersecurity strategy, which is being devised in conjunction with industry and other key stakeholders. There will be a public statement on the Government’s cybersecurity strategy later in 2016.
Action Fraud
Fraud Prevention Forum
gov.je