Northern Ireland

PSNI and Ulster University launch `Cybersafe' course

The `Cybersafe' course has been developed by the PSNI and Ulster University
The `Cybersafe' course has been developed by the PSNI and Ulster University The `Cybersafe' course has been developed by the PSNI and Ulster University

The PSNI and Ulster University have launched a special course to help those going online stay safe.

The five-week `Cybersafe' course is designed to provide participants with an awareness of cyber crime and what it entails, as well as highlighting the tools and support available to stay safe in the virtual world.

Detective Chief Inspector Douglas Grant, from the PSNI’s Cyber Crime Centre, said: "We all deserve to be able to use the internet to learn, explore and connect with each other however we also need to be aware that there are risks associated with our online activity.

"Cyber crime, in its various forms, is increasing in Northern Ireland. This course will help highlight what cyber crime is and what the risks are. It will also equip participants with the knowledge they need to protect themselves online".

Detective Chief Inspector Grant added: "I would encourage everyone who goes onto the internet for whatever reason to think about their online behaviour and ensure that they do everything they can to protect themselves.

"Simple measures such as limiting the amount of personal information shared on social media platforms, using anti-virus software and keeping that software up-to-date can help to prevent online crime".

Ursula Donnelly, Academic Programme Leader, from Ulster University said: "By partnering with the PSNI Cyber Crime Centre and drawing on their expertise and experiences, we have been able to develop a unique course which combines strategies to stay safe online with real life case studies of cyber crimes which have happened in Northern Ireland".

Those taking part in the course will attend five two-hour sessions.

The first course commenced last week with members of the Northern Ireland Somali Association at the South Belfast Social Enterprise Hub.

A second course is due to get underway tonight at Conway Education Centre in Belfast, with more courses planned over the coming months.

More information is available by contacting Lorraine Lavery-Bowen, Adult Education Manager at Ulster University on 028 9036 6695 or l.lavery-bowen@ulster.ac.uk