A campaign highlighting the importance of Two-Step Verification in protecting online accounts from cybercriminals is taking place on Merseyside today (Monday, March 17).
It is a national day of action, backed by Merseyside Police which warns that 'in an increasingly digital world, criminals find sophisticated ways to compromise social media profiles, email accounts, and other online platforms'.
Merseyside Police say that 'compromised' accounts are a useful tool for various types of cyber-enabled fraud, lending credibility to a wide variety of deception schemes.
They warn that 'by using a compromised account that appears legitimate, fraudsters can trick victims into believing they are receiving advice from a trusted friend or colleague. Similarly, email account takeovers can be used to intercept sensitive communications or launch targeted phishing attacks'.
Detective Sergeant Danny Gavin from Merseyside Police’s Cybercrime Unit said: "Enabling two-step verification is one of the most effective ways individuals can safeguard their online accounts.
"Sometimes referred to as Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), this straightforward security measure significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access, even if a password is compromised.
"Losing control of your online accounts can have devastating consequences.
"Victims can find themselves locked out of personal and professional communications, while their contacts become targets for fraud attempts. By taking simple steps like enabling 2SV, individuals can prevent these distressing scenarios".
The force recommends creating strong passwords for accounts by combining three random words with personal meaning. For example, "BlueChairRainbow" would be a password that is memorable to you and difficult for criminals to guess.
The key is to choose words that are significant to you but not easily connected by criminals and to use different passwords for all your accounts.
Detective Sergeant Gavin added: "As technology continues to evolve, we see artificial intelligence becoming an increasingly sophisticated tool that criminals may exploit.
"This makes it more important than ever for people to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to protect their digital identities.
"By implementing Two-Step Verification, using strong and unique passwords, and staying informed about potential online threats, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to cybercrime.
"For advice on how to spot the tactics and techniques commonly used by fraudsters, to help reduce your risk of becoming a victim, visit the Stop! Think Fraud website .
"If you suspect you have been the victim of an online fraud, visit Action Fraud for advice and report it here or call 0300 123 2040.
"Victims of fraud can obtain support from Victim Care Merseyside by calling Freephone 0808 175 3080 on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. or request support online here
'If you have information about those committing cybercrime, you can pass information via Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via its online form ."
