Coquitlam RCMP is reminding computer users to change their passwords.
Data gathered from millions of stolen passwords in 2012 shows most of us veer towards convenience instead of security when it comes to choosing passwords, with statistics showing cybercrime is on the rise, according to a press release from the local Mounties.
Social media and mobile devices are playing a growing role in cybercrime but more than 76% of mobile users don't use security solutions on their mobile devices. Additionally, two-thirds of online adults reported having been a victim of cybercrime at some point while 46% say they were victimized online in the past year by hackers, malware, fraudsters, viruses or theft.
Tips for reducing your risk of becoming a victim of cybercrime include:
Make sure you're not using one of the 25 most popular passwords of 2012 (the list is available on www.gizmodo.com).
Don't share your passwords with anyone.
If you can't remember all your passwords, consider investing in a password management system.
Change your passwords regularly, including the password or lock code for your cell phone.
Access password-protected websites only from your own computer; you have no way of knowing whether a public computer or a friend's device has surveillance software installed.
If you think you've been a victim of cybercrime, notify the service provider of your hacked account, notify the local police through the non-emergency reporting line, get your computer checked for malware and viruses and change passwords for high-risk accounts like banking, email and social networking.
