Cyber Security Helpline

Cyber security help for everyone — a paid hacking and phishing helpline. We gather evidence, secure your systems and advise on what happens next.

Cyber security helpline

• Cyber crime help — we gather evidence, secure and advise.
• Securing business and personal information.
• Password changes and two-factor authentication.
• Removal of viruses and rogue remote access applications.
• Desktop PC security inspection and checks.
• Fast, rapid remote assistance and help understanding what happened.

What a cyber helpline does

A cyber helpline, also sometimes called a cybercrime hotline or cybersecurity assistance centre, acts as a point of contact and support for individuals and businesses affected by cybercrime or online threats. It offers a range of services and assistance, which can typically include:

Reporting and guidance

• Reporting cyberattacks: helpline staff can guide victims through the process of reporting cybercrimes to police cyber crime agencies and relevant authorities — although it usually is merely logged and not actioned.
• Incident response advice: initial guidance on how to contain the damage from a cyberattack, minimising further loss or harm.
• Security recommendations: based on the specific situation, we can suggest appropriate security measures and resources to address the vulnerabilities and prevent future attacks.

Support and recovery

• Emotional support: victims of cybercrime often experience stress, anxiety and feelings of vulnerability. The helpline can offer support and connect them to relevant resources for coping with the psychological impact of the incident.
• Victim recovery assistance: this may include help with identity theft protection, credit monitoring, and recovery of lost data or compromised accounts.
• Technical assistance: IT Pro Expert offers specialist assistance to remove malware and remote access trojans, and to secure compromised systems.

Education and awareness

• Prevention resources: information and resources on various cybersecurity threats and best practices to stay safe online.
• Awareness campaigns: leading or participating in campaigns to raise public awareness about cybercrime and its impacts.

Additionally

• Legal advice: connecting victims with solicitors or legal resources to navigate legal issues related to significant cybercrime.
• Business continuity planning: assisting businesses in developing and implementing incident response plans and cybersecurity protocols.
• Vulnerability reporting: providing a safe channel for individuals and businesses to report discovered vulnerabilities in software or systems.

How do people get scammed online?

Scammers are unfortunately quite creative, coming up with new tricks and tactics all the time. However, some common methods they use to trap unsuspecting victims online include:

1. Phishing. Pretending to be a trusted entity — a bank, a government agency, or even a friend — to trick you into revealing personal information such as passwords, credit card numbers or national insurance details. Phishing can happen through emails, text messages, fake websites or even phone calls.
2. Social engineering. Manipulating people through psychological tricks and emotions to gain their trust or make them act impulsively. Scammers might pose as someone in need, offer too-good-to-be-true deals, or create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making a mistake.
3. Malware. Malicious software that can infect your computer or device when you click a suspicious link, download an infected file, or open an unwanted attachment. Malware can steal your personal information, encrypt your data, or even hijack your device.
4. Fake websites and online stores. Scammers often create fake websites or online stores that look legitimate but are designed to steal your money or information. Be wary of unfamiliar websites, especially those offering incredibly low prices or deals that seem too good to be true.
5. Online ads and pop-ups. Some deceptive online ads and pop-ups can be used to trick you into clicking malicious links, downloading malware, or subscribing to unwanted services. Always be cautious about clicking unknown ads or pop-ups.
6. Investment scams. These promise high returns or easy money with little effort. Scammers might target people with promises of cryptocurrency riches, get-rich-quick schemes, or fake investment opportunities. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
7. Smishing. Phishing via SMS or text message. Scammers can send texts pretending to be from your bank, phone carrier or even someone you know, trying to trick you into clicking malicious links or revealing personal information.
8. Romance scams. Building online relationships with the victim over time, gaining their trust and affection, before eventually asking for money or financial help. These can be emotionally devastating for the victim.

How to protect yourself

• Be cautious about unsolicited emails, texts and phone calls. Never give out personal information unless you are certain the sender is legitimate.
• Don't click suspicious links or download attachments from unknown sources.
• Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on your accounts.
• Keep your software and operating system up to date.
• Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, and do your research before making any online purchase or investment.
• Educate yourself about common online scams and how to avoid them.

By being aware of these common scams and taking some basic precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to online fraud. If something feels suspicious, it probably is. Always err on the side of caution and don't hesitate to report any suspected scams to the relevant authorities.

Helpful links

• National Cyber Security Centre — advice and guidance
• Metropolitan Police — useful contacts for fraud and cyber crime advice
• Action Fraud
• Victim Support
• Cifas
• National Crime Agency