LONDON – Feb. 16, 2011 – In 2011, it is estimated that cybercrime will cost the British economy a total of £1.9billion, which equates to £103 for every person affected1. Today, Internet security specialist Norton launched its powerful new Cybercrime Index in London to help combat this issue, by tracking and warning computer users about daily cybercrime risks around the world. The Norton Cybercrime Index is free to the public and alerts consumers to the most dangerous websites, the most hijacked search terms by cybercriminals, as well as top scams, identity theft and spam.
Today celebrity presenter Konnie Huq launched The Cybercrime Index Experiential Event, an installation about the Norton Cybercrime Index open to the public until 24th February in Westfield London’s Atrium.
The Norton Cybercrime Index can be viewed online, on a mobile device or downloaded onto a PC. Norton 360 version 5.0, which is available today, also provides quick access to the Norton Cybercrime Index.
The Norton Cybercrime Index consists of one number that updates daily indicating today’s threat level. The number is based on an algorithm that calculates data from three sources. The primary source is the Symantec Global Intelligence Network, one of the industry’s most comprehensive sources of intelligence about online threats, which monitors more than 130 million servers worldwide to keep track of new threats and attacks. In addition, consumer risk management firm ID Analytics, and DataLossDB, a research project from the Open Security Foundation, provide data about identity fraud and data loss, respectively.
In addition to checking the new Cybercrime Index on a daily basis to lower the threat of cybercrime from happening to you, Norton recommends the following tips to consumers to:
- Use strong passwords – Passwords should have at least eight characters and should combine alphanumeric and special characters. Having multiple passwords is a must and it’s important to change them regularly.
- Careful social media posting is not only good sense – it’s also good safety. Cybercriminals have been known to employ social engineering tactics by using information gleaned through your digital self, such as your preferred hangout spots and favorite hobbies to gain your trust before they scam you.
- Look for visual cues that identify safe websites – Scan the web page for a trust mark, such as a padlock or the VeriSign Trust Seal. Many browsers will also turn their address bars to the colour green to signify the site is authentic.
- Safeguard your e-mail address – There’s nothing wrong with being an active social networker. However, leaving your e-mail address in comments or making it available on your blog or social networking profile leaves you even more susceptible to spamming.
- Protect your computer – Keep your system clean and in good shape with an updated security software suite, such as Norton 360 version 5.
