Everyone Can Prevent Cyber Crime With Awareness
Next Gen Criminals Victimize People and Systems
ORILLIA, ON, Sept. 28, 2017 /CNW/ - The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) views Cyber Security Awareness Month as an opportunity to take a multi-pronged approach to address the many threats posed by cyber criminals.
The impact of fraud and victimization through technology as a target and technology used as a tool now totals in the billions of dollars annually in Canada. The destruction is only expected to expand through the 'Internet of Things' -- devices connected via the Internet that collect and exchange information with one another and with us.
During October, police services and subject matter experts from across the country want to safeguard all Canadians from becoming victims of online and digital crimes. The OPP 2017 Cyber Security Awareness Month public, media and social media campaign will focus on four broader themes, including:
- Identity theft
- Two-factor Authentication and digital citizenship (Online Child Safety)
- Online shopping and Safe Trade Zones
- OPP Cyber Crime Investigations Team
The OPP is spreading the word among its own 9,200 employees to de-mystify threats, enhance education and awareness, and to ensure OPP information systems remain secure. The OPP is encouraging its members to share online safety tips and best practices with their children, family members and friends.
For helpful tips and links, follow the OPP on Twitter (@OPP_News), Facebook and Instagram and using the hashtags #CyberSecurity, #CyberAware and #OPPTips.
If you or someone you know suspects they've been a victim of digital or online crime, contact your local police service, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, report it to the OPP online at http://www.opp.ca/index.php?id=132 or through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) at https://www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm
QUOTES
"The OPP Cyber Strategy aligns with our public safety partners' efforts to prevent cyber criminals from victimizing our communities while securing our own information systems. We encourage our members to take a leadership role to safeguard their personal lives and their communities by sharing and implementing best practices learned at work."
? J.V.N. (Vince) HAWKES, OPP Commissioner
"Digital and web-based evidence are vital to nearly every OPP investigation. From creating a stand-alone Cyber Crime Investigation Team to capturing digital evidence right at our cruisers, the OPP is demonstrating its commitment to world class investigations and safer communities. But it starts with awareness."
?Deputy Commissioner Rick BARNUM, OPP Investigations and Organized Crime
LEARN MORE
Get Cyber Safe is a national, multi-jurisdiction, public awareness campaign created to educate Canadians about Internet security and the simple steps they can take to protect themselves online. Visit http://www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/
Cyber Security Awareness Month toolkit (courtesy of Public Safety Canada)
Cyber Security Risks (courtesy of Public Safety Canada)
MEDIA NOTE: This is the first in a series of topic-specific OPP media releases to enhance community safety and awareness as part of Cyber Security Awareness Month.
SOURCE Ontario Provincial Police
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