Meet the police cyber champion helping to keep Leeds youngsters safe and savvy
“Most children from the age of around seven have a mobile phone that has apps and accounts and they’re not aware of the issues that can happen. It’s important to teach children when they’re young”
A new scheme to train officers and raise cyber crime awareness across the force to help communities has recently been launched.
As part of Cyber Crime Awareness Month, an annual campaign that promotes positive cyber security habits to help people and organisations to stay safe online, West Yorkshire Police’s volunteer Cyber Champions are keen to teach both staff, officers and communities more about online crime.
The first ever three Cyber Champions received specialist training in Cyber Prevent & Protect work in August.
The trio have already been out across the region speaking to businesses, communities and schools to support them with any cyber safety queries they have, share tips on how to stay safe online, and raise awareness of the West Yorkshire Police Cyber team.
PCSO Gemma Simpson, based in Leeds, has worked at West Yorkshire Police for 19 years.
During this time, she has worked with primary schools to teach the younger generation more about the police and showed children the importance of cyber safety.
She said: “Most children from the age of around seven have a mobile phone that has apps and accounts and they’re not aware of the issues that can happen.
“It’s important to teach children when they’re young. When I’ve visited schools, children have often told me they have spoken to strangers online.”
“I aim to go to as many businesses as I can. Some local businesses can’t afford cyber protection, and some have said they’ve previously been hacked. It can happen more than people think.
“When I had the extra training, it really opened my eyes. I changed my passwords and it made me think about how even with a small bit of information a hacker can take over.”
Emma Davies, cyber protect officer at West Yorkshire Police, who leads the training said: “This is a fantastic initiative that provides our officers on the front line with the opportunity to build on their tools and share their knowledge with those who need it.
“Cyber crime is on the rise and can have devastating impacts, it’s just a matter of when not if. We are determined to help prevent and protect our businesses and communities.
“Our team is made up of Cyber protect, prevent and pursue officers who all bring specialist skills to support victims and investigate perpetrators.”
Ways to keep safe online:
* Strengthen your passwords
* Be mindful of cookies
* Check your emails carefully
* Set up 2 factor authentication
* Back up and update your devices
* Slow down and take your time
For further advice visit: https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/advice/online-crime-safety/online-safety-cybercrime/cybercrime/advice-businesses-families-and-individuals
If you think you may have been a victim of cyber crime or fraud, you should report it to Report Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.