UK Gmail and Facebook users face losing money if they ignoring 'crucial' new advice

UK internet users utilizing popular platforms such as Gmail, Yahoo, Instagram, and Facebook are being cautioned about a significant surge in online scams. Authorities at Equifax issued a new alert revealing that approximately £6 million was illicitly obtained by cybercriminals last year. This substantial sum underscores the ease with which individuals are falling victim to scams perpetrated through familiar channels like email and social media.

Surge in Reported Online Fraud Incidents

Recent research from Equifax indicates a concerning trend: over 36,000 incidents of online fraud exploiting platforms like Gmail, Yahoo, and Facebook were reported in 2024. This data highlights the pervasive nature of these digital threats.

Regional Breakdown of Cybercrime in the UK

Geographical location appears to be a factor influencing vulnerability to these scams. Analysis of National Fraud Intelligence Bureau (NFIB) data reveals significant regional disparities.

East of England: Most Affected Region

The East of England experienced the highest rate of incidents over a 12-month period, with 14.9 incidents per 1,000 residents. Financial losses in this region surpassed £700,000, demonstrating the severe financial impact on victims.

South Wales: High Incidence Rate

South Wales recorded the second-highest incidence rate, with 11.8 reported incidents per 1,000 individuals. Victims in this region collectively lost approximately £16,200 to online fraudsters.

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London: Significant Financial Losses

As anticipated, London also registered a high number of cybercrime incidents. The capital reported 10.3 incidents per 1,000 people in the past year, but suffered the largest financial blow, with losses reaching a staggering £849,100.

Expert Commentary on Escalating Cyber Threats

Phillip Davies, Chief Information Security Officer at Equifax Europe, emphasized the growing danger:

“The increasing sophistication of cyberattacks represents a grave threat to the economy, personal privacy, and national security.”

He further urged proactive measures:

“We advise everyone, from small businesses to large corporations, to prioritize cybersecurity and adopt essential measures to safeguard sensitive data.”

Essential Cybersecurity Recommendations

To enhance online safety, Equifax recommends several critical steps:

• 강화된 접근 보안 (Enhanced Access Security): Employ robust security measures such as passwords, fingerprint recognition, or facial recognition to protect your devices and accounts.
• 경계 태세 유지 (Maintain Vigilance): Exercise caution and avoid clicking on links in emails or messages unless you are absolutely certain of the sender’s identity. Phishing attempts often rely on deceptive links.

Additional Protective Measures

Further steps to bolster your cybersecurity include:

• 보안 와이파이 사용 (Secure Wi-Fi Usage): Be mindful of the data transmitted when using public Wi-Fi networks in locations like cafes and airports, as these networks can be vulnerable.
• 비밀번호 관리자 활용 (Password Manager Utilization): Implement a password manager to facilitate the creation and management of complex, unique passwords for different accounts.
• 2단계 인증 활성화 (Two-Factor Authentication Activation): Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of security beyond just a password.
• 앱 출처 검증 (App Source Verification): Minimize the risk of app-based cyberattacks by downloading applications exclusively from official app stores such as the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, avoiding third-party sources.