Cybercrime now accounts for nearly half of all crimes against individuals in England and Wales, according to government research, highlighting a growing threat to personal digital security. As reliance on the internet for work, gaming, and communication intensifies, experts are urging the public to adopt stronger safeguards to protect themselves and their families from cybercriminals.

The research reveals that incidents of cybercrime and fraud, both online and offline, constitute almost 50% of crimes targeting individuals. This alarming statistic underscores the evolving nature of criminal activity, which increasingly exploits everyday online habits. From phishing scams to ransomware attacks, cybercriminals are deploying sophisticated methods to steal personal data, financial assets, and even virtual goods tied to gaming accounts.

Types of cybercriminals

• Phishers. Phishing is one of the most common forms of cybercrime. Phishers often pose as legitimate companies or acquaintances to steal sensitive information. Phishing attacks can occur via email, text messages, or even phone calls. They might ask you to click a link or download an attachment, which can then infect your device or collect your personal data.
• Gaming hackers. Gamers are often targeted by hackers due to the personal data and valuable in-game assets tied to their gaming accounts. Gaming hackers use various tactics, such as exploiting game vulnerabilities, stealing login credentials, or manipulating game codes to gain unfair advantages. They may also deploy malware or scams to steal personal information or money from players.
• Ransomware hackers. Ransomware hackers specialise in encrypting a victim’s files or systems, making them inaccessible, and demanding payment to restore access. These attacks can be devastating for individuals, businesses, and even governments, as they can lead to significant data loss and financial damage. Ransomware is often spread through phishing emails, malicious websites, or vulnerable software. 

What makes you a target for hacking?

• Unprotected wifi. Using unsecured networks or not properly securing your home wifi can give attackers easy access to your devices. It’s important to use strong encryption, regularly update your router firmware, and consider tools like an SPF generator to help authenticate outgoing emails and reduce the risk of spoofing attacks that often exploit unsecured networks.
• Weak passwords. If you use simple, easy-to-guess passwords, or if you have the same password for multiple accounts, it can be easier for hackers to gain access to these accounts.
• Outdated software. Failing to update devices or applications leaves you vulnerable to known security flaws that hackers can exploit.
• Oversharing on social media. Sharing too much personal information online can help hackers piece together answers to security questions and access your accounts.

Advice for parents

• Teach them to be social media savvy. If your child uses social media, ensure their accounts are set to private. This will prevent strangers from viewing their profiles or sending them messages that could compromise their personal information. Explain the importance of not accepting friend requests from strangers and never sharing personal details online.
• Monitor online gaming activities. Some games can expose children to hackers who might try to manipulate the game or steal personal data. Stay informed about the games your child plays and the platforms they use, ensuring they only engage with trusted, age-appropriate sites.
• Set up parental controls. Many devices and platforms offer parental controls to limit content, screen time, and who can interact with your child online. These tools can help protect them from unwanted exposure and reduce their risk of interacting with harmful individuals.
• Be cautious about downloads. Hackers often disguise malicious software as game enhancements to infect systems and steal data. Teach your child not to download game mods, cheats, or files from untrusted sources.
• Encourage them to report suspicious behaviour. Hackers may try to befriend or manipulate other users to gain access to their accounts or personal data. Make sure your child knows how to identify suspicious behaviour in games or on social media, and encourage them to report any concerning interactions to the platform right away.

Steve Mason, general manager at CyberPowerPC UK, emphasises the universal risk: “It’s not just big businesses or tech-savvy individuals who are at risk of hacking. Whether you’re a student, parent, content creator, or gamer, you can be a target. The first step in securing your digital life is understanding the threats and learning how to protect yourself. Avoid sharing personal details online, clicking on suspicious links, or downloading files from unknown sources, and make sure your accounts are secure.”