Digital security

Digital crime means that criminals use the Internet or technology to harm people or businesses. 

We distinguish between two types of digital crime: 

Digitized crime 

In this form, criminals use computers or the Internet to commit existing forms of crime faster or on a larger scale. Examples include fraud through a fake Web shop, fake payment requests through WhatsApp, or stealing personal data through phishing emails. 

Cybercrime 

Cybercrime is a form of digital crime. It involves crimes in which criminals use computers, networks or other digital devices to break into, damage or steal information.

In cybercrime, the ICT system itself is the target. Criminals thus target computers, servers, websites or other digital systems. For example, they try to break into your computer, steal your data or shut down a system. 

There are different forms of cybercrime. Below we explain a few of them: 

Breaking into a computer (hacking) 

A criminal tries to access your computer or phone without permission. This is what we call hacking. The goal is often to take over your device, steal data or block files. This is punishable by law. 

System overloading (DDoS attack) 

In a DDoS attack, criminals send a lot of data traffic to a website, server or app at the same time. As a result, the system gets overloaded and becomes slow or completely unreachable. Thus, users are temporarily unable to use it. 

Hostage software (ransomware) 

Ransomware is a form of malicious software that blocks your computer or files. You can then no longer access your data. The criminals often demand money (ransom) to unblock it. Never just pay this - always ask for help first. 

It is important to realize that you are not alone. Anyone can become a victim of digital crime. Criminals are always coming up with something new to make mails, apps or offers look real. This is how they try to scam people.

Have you or someone close to you become a victim of digital crime? 

It is important then to report or notify police. 

Does it involve online scams or fraud? Then you can also report this to the Fraud Helpdesk. Have you lost money or transferred money after receiving a fake email or link? Contact your bank immediately. Sometimes they can still stop or reverse the payment.

In addition to the police, there are other organizations that can help you: 

• Slachtofferhulp Nederland for emotional and practical help
• Fraud Help Desk for advice and reports of scams
• Helpwanted helpline for online cross-border behavior
• Report.Online Discrimination for reports of discrimination

You can also report suspicious situations to us at veiligheid@t-diel.nl or through our report form.

You can do a lot yourself to avoid becoming a victim of digital crime. With a few simple measures, you can make it much more difficult for criminals: 

• Use a strong password.
  Use a different password for each website. You can also use a phrase as a password.
• Do updates as soon as your computer or phone asks you to.
  That way, everything works better and you stay better protected from problems.
• Use a virus scan.
  A virus scanner helps keep your computer or phone safe. Make sure it is always up-to-date.
• Back up.
  Store your important files in a safe place. For example, on a USB stick or hard drive. Does something go wrong? Then you will have a copy.
• Don't just click on links.
  Get an e-mail or message with a link? Don't click right away. Look carefully first to see who sent it. In doubt? Don't click.
• Check a webshop before you buy anything from it.
  Do you see something very cheap? Or do you not know the webshop? Then look for reviews or a seal of approval first. Is it too good to be true? Then it often is.
• Beware of money requests.
  Is someone asking you to transfer money quickly? If so, stop for a moment. Call that person or organization yourself to check for accuracy.
• Check if your data has been stolen.
  The website Have I Been Pwned or Check your hack from the police allows you to check if your e-mail addresses or passwords have been leaked or stolen.
• Report something suspicious.
  Do you see something strange online? or are you worried about someone? You can report anonymously at hotline Report Crime Anonymously.

Want to know more?

The Safe Surfing website has videos and explanations on how to protect yourself online. You can also visit the website www.fraudehelpdesk.nl for more information. 

Ransomware, DDoS attacks, phishing or a data breach. Chances are, sooner or later, your company will also have to deal with digital crime or another digital incident.  

Cyber attacks can cause major damage. These tips will help you reduce the risks: 

Ransomware

• Make backups and keep them safe.
• Keep software and systems up-to-date.
• Limit employee access rights. 

DDoS attacks 

• Choose a provider/host with DDoS protection.
• Use a Content Delivery Network (CDN).
• Create a contingency plan for when systems go down. 

Phishing 

• Train employees to recognize fake messages.
• Check senders and links carefully.
• Use two-factor authentication (2FA). 

Data breaches 

• Keep only necessary data.
• Encrypt files and use strong passwords.
• Provide a data breach notification and action protocol. 

• The municipality works with various organizations to empower residents and business owners in the digital world. We want everyone to know how to use the Internet safely and what to do against online crime.
• We pay special attention to groups that are more likely to be victims of digital crime. These include children, young people and their parents or guardians, as well as seniors and entrepreneurs. For these groups, the risk of harm is often greater, and the consequences can be significant.
• Therefore, we support initiatives from partners such as the library and other community organizations. They offer information, training or help with questions about digitally safe behavior. In schools, we encourage the use of teaching materials so that children learn at an early age how to be safe online.
• In addition, we not only pay attention to victims, but also target people who commit digital crime. Within the municipality itself, we ensure secure systems and good digital security. In this way, together with our partners, we build a safe digital environment for everyone. 

Digital resilience

An important part of our approach is to strengthen children's digital resilience. They grow up with internet and social media, but are often not yet aware of the dangers. That is why we are starting a special program for children from group 5 to 8: HackShield - Tytsjerksteradiel | HackShield Future Cyber Heroes.