Keeping you safe

We want your experience with iMicro to be as safe as possible and the security of your data is of the upmost importance to us. However, internal measures we have in place alone cannot protect you personally from the potential of cyber-attacks external to our systems and measures we put in place for you.

There are many things you, as an electronic user, can do to protect yourself from these attacks just by being aware of the potential threats. We hope the information provided on this page will give you an insight to what can happen and how to protect yourself.

Specific Guidance on Coronavirus Scams

Fraudsters are capitalising on the confusion and distress caused by the current Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic through a series of new scams related to the virus launched in recent weeks.

These scams are appearing in multiple forms, from text messages to emails, and are designed to take advantage of unsuspecting members of the public.

They are aimed at tricking people into revealing sensitive information, such as bank details and PIN numbers and – unfortunately – it is very easy for fraudsters to make fake messages look like they’re being sent from a trusted source.

Examples of Current Coronavirus-related Scams

• Fake HMRC text offering money as a ‘goodwill payment’
• Fake email claiming eligibility for a tax refund
• Messages threatening the recipient with fake fines for leaving their homes
• Fraudulent emails being sent from criminals posing as the World Health Organisation (WHO)

If you think you have been the victim of a Coronavirus scam – or indeed any scam – please contact us immediately.

General Tips and Advice on Being Vigilant

1. NEVER click on links in texts or emails that you do not recognise or are not expecting to receive.

If you receive any communication relating to Coronavirus, or any communication that looks suspicious, it’s always best to verify it first before clicking on any links included in a text or an email.

2. iMicro will NEVER ask you to share personal or sensitive information.

Personal information includes PIN numbers, email passwords or security numbers. If someone is claiming to represent iMicro and is asking for these details, it is a SCAM.

3. Do not be pressured into taking immediate action – ALWAYS TAKE YOUR TIME.

Fraudsters are renowned for using scare tactics in a bid to force you into taking action. iMicro – or indeed any trusted organisation – will NEVER try to panic you or coherse you into making online cash transfers. We will also never stop you from talking to friends or family for advice. If you are unsure – always take your time.

4. BE WARY of the offer of financial incentives.

Never trust a message or an offer which says your entitled to money or are required to pay a fine without checking it is genuine.

Electronic communication from iMicro

Within the normal course of our business with you iMicro may call, email or text you (depending on your preferences) to confirm details of a transaction or by response to a request.

If we contact you by email or text, we will never ask you to send personal or sensitive information online.

If you receive any communication from iMicro that you are suspicious about, always check directly with us to confirm the validity of it. Our contact details are available on the iMicro website here.

Further Reading on Coronavirus

Coronavirus (Covid-19) – What You Need To Do

Be Vigilant Against Coronavirus Scams

National Cyber Security Centre Online Guideline for Coronavirus Scam

Further Online Security Best Practice and Guidance

Electronic communication from iMicro

Within the normal course of our business with you iMicro may call, email or text you (depending on your preferences) to confirm details of a transaction. If we contact you by email or text, we will NEVER ask you to send personal or sensitive information online.

If you receive any communication from iMicro that you are suspicious about, always check directly with us to confirm the validity of it. Our contact details are available on the iMicro website here.

Phishing Scams

The term ‘Phishing’ is the fraudulent practice of sending emails purporting to be from reputable companies in order to induce individuals to reveal personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers.

Occasionally, fraudsters set up websites purporting to be an official site, asking for personal and security information. They want you to divulge enough information for them to use to either take payments directly from your accounts or have it sent back to your nominated account which they then ask you to transfer to another ‘reserve account’ which they control.

Keep yourself secure

• ALWAYS be aware of opening emails and attachments from sources that you are unsure about or look to good to be true.
• Protect your data by keeping your computer updated. Reboot regularly. Keep your internet security software up-to-date.
• Back up sensitive files on your computer to a separate source in case you need to restore this information later.
• Keep your information private. Do not share logon details with others or with anyone asking for it online.
• Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) whenever possible.

Online safety – how to protect yourself and your family:
https://www.getsafeonline.org

The Metropolitan Police also issues guidance on the different types of scams that can occur.
A PDF version is available here:

https://www.met.police.uk/SysSiteAssets/media/downloads/central/advice/met/fraud/the-little-book-of-big-scams.pdf

Reporting internet crime to the National Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Centre:

https://www.actionfraud.police.uk

Take Five offers straight-forward and impartial advice to help everyone in the UK protect themselves against financial fraud:

https://takefive-stopfraud.org.uk