Immediate, free help is now available 24/7 to anyone finding themselves under a cyber attack.
The free Cyber Incident Response Helplines are being provided by NEBRC (North East Business Resilience Centre), the police-led, non-profit organisation which exists to support businesses in the North East of England in protecting themselves from cyber crimes and fraud.
“We are aware that one of the worst moments for anyone who has been attacked is quickly understanding the implications and knowing which way to turn. Our new service gives a direct route to immediate assistance that’s usually only available if you’re signed up with a private provider”, explained NEBRC Director, Supt Rebecca Chapman.
She went on, “Our experience has shown that by seeking immediate support and guidance it can lessen the impact of an attack. First and foremost, we always advise businesses and individuals to get in touch with their local police force, but by also engaging with one of our Expert Partners it could help with damage limitation in those crucial first minutes and hours”.
“All of our four partners have committed to offering an hour’s support for free, and, once the immediate actions have been carried out, the business then has a choice of which path, if any, they wish to take next”.
If you are currently suffering a live Cyber attack (in progress), please call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 immediately. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Alternatively you can call your local Police at any time on 101.
If you are reporting a cyber-attack which has already taken place and isn’t ongoing, you can report it via Action Fraud’s online reporting tool, which will guide you through simple questions to identify what has happened. Action fraud advisors can also provide the help, support and advice you need. You can also call Action Fraud’s telephone number if preferred on 0300 123 2040. And you can call the Cyber Incident Response Helplines, or call datamills on 0114 287 0510.