DORSET police is urging people to think about preventing cyber crime this Get Safe Online week.

Now in its ninth year, the week which runs from today until Sunday, aims to keep people safe from the growing threat of online crime as more and more people do their banking, shopping and socialising online.

Director of Intelligence, Superintendent Mark Callaghan said: “Cyber enabled crimes are traditional crimes that are increased in their scale and reach by computers. They include fraud, scams, theft, including identification theft, and sexual offending against children such as grooming and indecent images.”

Dorset Police is urging the public to take simple steps to protect themselves and is encouraging businesses and residents to check they know how to keep their computers, smartphones, tablets and games consoles safe.

Superintendent Callaghan added: “I encourage everyone to visit the Get Safe Online website where there is a comprehensive guide to protecting yourself, your children and your electronic devices.” He added that anyone with an elderly relative or neighbour should check they have security software install to prevent them becoming victims of crimes like fraud.

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill said: “Cyber-crime is the fastest emerging threat in Dorset. We must make sure the Force is properly equipped to tackle online crime and that resources are deployed to increase our expertise in this area.”

To get more information visit getsafeonline.org.

Get Safe Online – 10 simple rules to follow:

• Make sure your computer has up-to-date internet security software, switched on

• Don’t reveal personal information on social networking sites

• Regularly backup the data on your computer and smartphone/tablet

• Never reveal your password or PIN when asked to do so by email or on the phone

• Make sure your wireless network is secure at all times

• Be careful who you are selling to and buying from on auction sites

• Choose strong passwords, change them regularly and don’t tell anybody what they are

• When shopping, paying or banking online, always make sure the website is secure

• Always download the latest software and operating system updates when prompted

• Remember your smartphone is also a target for viruses and spyware