Cumbrians are being encouraged to come forward with their concerns about how to stay safe online.

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, is set to respond to any issues and questions raised surrounding the topic at his Cyber Security public surgery tomorrow (January 13).

The event will take place between 12pm-1pm, with Mr McCall, an officer from the Cyber and Digital Crime Unit and a partner from Get Safe Online on-hand to offer guidance and advice.

Commenting on the event, Mr McCall said: “Cyber crime has increased during the Covid-19 lockdowns, and with the third national lockdown now in full-swing, I want the public to be as safe as possible online as well as offline.

“Many of us have moved our shopping habits online, and with scams and fraud increasing it is extremely important that we protect ourselves as best we can from these tech-savvy criminals.

“This is why I am hosting the Facebook live event on Wednesday 13 January 2021 with online professionals who know invaluable tips and advice on how to spot the signs of malicious emails, links and social media posts and how to secure online accounts from banking to shopping.

“If you have any concerns or questions on how to protect yourself online, get in contact before or on the day of the event and let’s deter online criminals together.”

Residents can submit comments to commissioner@cumbria-pcc.gov.uk, or by calling 01768 217734, or they can post their question on the day on the dedicated cyber crime event post on Cumbria PCC’s Facebook page.

All answers will be shared on the Facebook page.

Tony Neate, CEO, Get Safe Online said: “Alongside the rest of the world, the people of Cumbria have relied on the internet to an unprecedented extent since the advent of the pandemic.

“Together with people’s concerns and uncertainty around health, wellbeing, work and financial affairs, this has created a perfect storm for fraudsters to exploit the situation.

“We’re delighted to be joining Peter McCall and Cumbria Police on this very important Facebook event, and I know my colleague Liz Stanton is looking forward to answering any questions and concerns from members of the public and businesses who will be joining.”

Niall McNicholas, Cyber Dependent Crime Specialist, added: “We have witnessed first-hand the impact Covid-19 has had by the number of reports we are receiving, due to people beginning to stay at home. “

“People are much more likely to use the internet for shopping and communicating to one another and therefore it’s very important you are aware of the dangers online and how to keep safe”

“This is a fantastic opportunity to ask any questions or concerns you have with keeping safe online. Knowing some simple security steps can be the difference between keeping safe or becoming a victim. Join in and see what you think.”

If you would like to raise any concerns, or have any questions regarding your personal safety online, contact Peter McCall at commissioner@cumbria-pcc.gov.uk.