Switch to Passkeys and Stay Safe Online as Account Hacking Soars
Email and social media hacking is rising rapidly across the UK. Protect yourself by using passkeys, strong passwords and two-step verification. Never share your passwords with anyone and always verify unexpected messages before responding.
Published: 17 October 2026
Remember: Never Share Your Passwords
One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself is to never share your passwords with anyone.
Legitimate companies, banks, government agencies and online services will not ask for your password. If anyone requests your password, treat it with extreme caution and verify the request independently.
Four Steps to Protect Your Accounts
- Use Passkeys and Strong Security
- Use passkeys wherever they are available.
- Where passkeys are not offered, use a strong, unique password for every account.
- Consider using a reputable password manager.
- Enable two-step verification whenever possible.
- Review Your Privacy Settings
- Check who can see your social media posts and personal information.
- Restrict access to trusted friends and family where appropriate.
- Think Before You Share
- Avoid posting information such as your date of birth, home address, family details or pet names, as these can be used by criminals to make scams more convincing.
- Verify Unexpected Messages
- If you receive an unusual request via email or social media, contact the person using another method, such as a phone call or text message, before responding.
Free Online Security Webinar
As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Report Fraud is hosting a free webinar covering:
- Current email and social media threats
- Practical security measures
- How passkeys work
- Steps to protect yourself, friends and family from account hacking
Residents can register using the following link:
🔗 Register for the Cybersecurity Awareness Webinar
Need Help?
If you believe one of your accounts has been hacked:
- Change your password immediately.
- Enable two-step verification if available.
- Check account recovery settings.
- Inform friends and family if fraudulent messages may have been sent from your account.
- Report the incident and seek further advice from the appropriate reporting authorities.
By taking a few simple precautions today, residents can significantly reduce the risk of becoming victims of online fraud and help keep their personal information secure.
