Are you cyber safe? Protect your business from online threats

Unfortunately, we are seeing more online crimes specifically targeting farmers, including fake machinery ads and fraudsters claiming to be from agencies such as the BPA and DEFRA.

As farms move into the digital world this can be daunting, but there are some simple ways to protect your business.

Remember, any internet connected device can be at risk, including computers, mobile phones and on-farm technologies. You can apply the following security principles across all your devices, to help keep them secure:

• Use strong, unique and regularly-changed passwords with two-factor authentication and password managers wherever possible.
• Ensure Wi-Fi networks are secure, with password protection, remembering to change the default passwords when first installed.
• Keep devices up to date with the latest operating system and software version can also reduce risks.

Fraudulent communications are becoming more common and highly sophisticated, often timed with a particular event to add credibility and make them hard to spot. Look out for common warning signs such as prompts to click on links, urgent warnings and emotive language.

Always take a step back and consider if a communication is genuine. If you have any doubts, contact the company using details on its website or the original documents you received. Genuine companies, including Cornish Mutual, never ask for personal details by text or email.

For further cyber safety guidance, click here.