Big losses prompt calls for higher security
Don’t think ‘she’ll be right’ when it comes to online security.
New Zealanders are being urged to get the cyber basics in place, as high losses are reported to online security incidents.
With $7.8 million reported lost to cyber criminals and scammers in the first quarter of this year, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is encouraging New Zealanders not to be complacent.
“Scammers are out there, looking for ways to steal and intercept our money,” says NCSC spokesperson Mike Jagusch.
“Apathy is a common barrier among those who did not take cyber security actions and also for not reporting incidents.
“Culturally, we know there is a bit of a ‘she’ll be right’ attitude down here in New Zealand where people don’t think this will happen to them. But these reports show we need to change that mindset.
“People are more likely to invest time in security after they’ve suffered harm. But you are far better spending this time to implement some simple security steps before something goes wrong.”
Taking the first steps is easy. All New Zealanders should be using long, strong and unique passwords and using two-factor authentication.
These two steps will help protect you from the vast majority of online security threats.
People can also complete the cyber security self-assessment tool. answer a few questions and then get provided some practical priority actions.
Online security self assessment tool
You can read more about the Quarterly Insights Report.