• Email and social media account hacking is on the increase - make sure your passwords for these and other online accounts are strong. Use a different password for each account and keep them safe. Consider using a Password Manager to help you manage your passwords and they can check that you have sufficiently strong passwords.

• See here for advice on how to construct strong passwords. You can visit the "haveIbeenpwned?" web site to check if your email account has been compromised. You can also click here to check Is my password safe to use? and if not you should change it immediately.

• Ensure you keep your phone/tablet/computer protected by using antivirus and internet security software, and installing the latest system and software/app updates as these often fix security loopholes. Always use a verified trusted source for software updates and turn on automatic updates.

• Turn on 2 Factor Authentication (2FA) to log into email and other online accounts where possible. This is a way to double check the identity of a person when logging in e.g. by sending a security code to a mobile phone or alternative email account. Cyber criminals in possession of a password can’t access the account unless they have this "second factor".

• When shopping or banking online, always check that the address bar shows ‘https’ and log out when done. The padlock sign means that the connection is encrypted, so personal information will reach the site without anyone else being able to read it. Use a credit card, as most major providers insure online purchases.

• You can use Check a website to see if a shopping, banking or any other site is safe to use or has the potential to scam you.

• Form filling: There are details that an online store will need, such as address and bank details, be cautious if they ask for details not required for purchases. Only fill in the mandatory details on forms (usually marked with an asterisk).

• Get Safe Online is a public / private sector partnership supported by HM Government and leading organisations in banking, retail, internet security and other sectors. Click on the link to get access to a wealth of detailed information on how to protect yourself and your electronic devices.