Cyber security is the means by which individuals and organisations reduce the risk of being affected by cyber crime.

Cyber security's core function is to protect the devices we all use (smartphones, laptops, tablets and computers), and the services we access online - both at home and work - from theft or damage. It's also about preventing unauthorised access to the vast amounts of personal information we store on these devices, and online.

Cyber security is important because smartphones, computers and the internet are now such a fundamental part of modern life, that it's difficult to imagine how we'd function without them. From online banking and shopping, to email and social media, it's more important than ever to take steps that can prevent cyber criminals getting hold of our accounts, data, and devices. 

Whether it's your email, social media or some other type of online service, there are many things which can alert you to the fact that someone else is accessing your account.

Being locked out of the account is an obvious indication that something has gone wrong, but the signs can be more subtle. Things to look out for include logins or attempted logins from strange locations or at unusual times. Changes to your security settings and messages sent from your account that you don't recognise are also give aways.

However you discover the problem, once you know your account has been hacked, press the button below for advice on what you should do:

✧ Weak or stolen passwords: Attackers can easily gain access to sensitive information if passwords are not strong enough or if they are obtained through hacking or phishing.

✧ Unpatched software: Software vulnerabilities can be exploited by attackers if they are not fixed in a timely manner.

✧ Phishing scams: Phishing scams trick individuals into revealing sensitive information such as passwords or financial information through emails or fake websites that appear to be from a trusted source.

✧ Insufficient network security: Weaknesses in a network's security can allow attackers to penetrate and steal sensitive information.

✧ Social engineering: Attackers can manipulate individuals into revealing sensitive information or take actions that compromise security through psychological means.

✧ Insider threat: Employees or contractors with access to sensitive information can intentionally or accidentally cause a breach.

By understanding these causes and taking appropriate measures, organizations and individuals can reduce their risk of falling victim to a cyber breach.

Cyberbullying: Children can be subjected to cyberbullying through social media, instant messaging, and other online platforms.

Online Predators: Children can be targeted by predators who use the internet to groom and exploit them.

✧ Online Scams: Children can be tricked into giving away personal information, money, or other valuables by online scammers.

✧ Inappropriate Content: Children can be exposed to graphic or violent content that is not suitable for their age.

✧ Addiction: Children can become addicted to online games, social media, or other online activities that negatively impact their mental and physical health.

✧ Privacy Issues: Children can have their personal information, such as their location, photos, and messages, shared online without their consent.

✧ Online Purchases: Children can make unauthorized online purchases, incurring charges to their parents' credit card or bank account.

✧ Spam: Children can receive spam emails or messages containing malicious links that can harm their computer or steal their personal information.

For further information and advice contact the Wales Cyber Resilience Centre. See below