Renfrewshire Council

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Introducing our new security and compliance manager, Cathie Fraser

Our new security and compliance manager, Cathie Fraser, introduces herself and shares 5 golden rules to help us all stay safe online.

Headshot of blonde woman smiling to camera Dear colleagues,

I'm excited to join you at Renfrewshire Council as the new ICT security and compliance manager.

In today's world, cyber security is crucial to the services we provide, and I'm eager for all of us, right across the council, to work together to learn and build on our cyber security knowledge and awareness.

As colleagues, you are our strongest defence against cyber attacks which are a real danger to the council and the local communities we serve. By completing your mandatory cyber security training every year and following our guidance, you're not only protecting our network, but you are also developing the knowledge and skills you need to safeguard yourself and your family at home.

As we approach the UK General Election on 4 July, there is a heightened risk to all councils, who have a key role in the delivery of local democracy.

Here are my 5 cyber security top tips that can help keep all of us safe:

1.      Be cautious with emails

  • Stop and think before you interact with emails.
  • Always check the sender's email address.
  • Look out for warning banners, spelling mistakes and unusual content.

2.      Follow our ABCD guidance if you make a mistake at work

  • Always stay calm and stop what you are doing.
  • Begin to collect information about the suspicious email.
  • Contact the Service Desk immediately for guidance on 0141 487 0000.
  • Don't forward the email to anyone, even ICT. Take a screen shot instead using 'Print Scrn' on keyboard or with snipping tool.

3.      Use strong passwords

4.      Use social media and messaging apps carefully

  • Avoid sharing personal information unnecessarily and adjust your privacy settings on social media platforms to limit what people can see about you.
  • Use tools like The Social Footprint Checker to check how your online presence appears to others.
  • When using messaging apps make sure you use the latest app version, use disappearing messages and verify who you are speaking to.

5.      Protect your devices

  • Keep your software updated and only download apps from official platforms like Google Play and Apple's App Store.
  • Set up multi-factor authentication on all your accounts to add an extra layer of security.
  • Always use a password, PIN or biometric to lock your device.
  • Avoid carrying out confidential activities when connected to a public charging point or using public Wi-Fi.
  • If you have any questions or concerns relating to cyber security at work, you can contact me on 0141 487 4708 or at cathie.fraser@renfrewshire.gov.uk.

For useful guidance and resources you can use at home, visit RenSafeOnline.

Thank you,

Cathie.

Published on Thursday 20 June 2024