Online Safety stories

AI & data breaches drive rise in sextortion scams
Yesterday
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mfa
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cryptocurrency
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data privacy
Sextortion scams are surging globally, with New Zealand reporting a staggering 137% increase in 2025, driven by AI and recent data breaches.

UK introduces strict online safety rules for tech firms
3 days ago
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government
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social media
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online safety
As the Online Safety Act launches, UK tech firms must comply with Ofcom's new regulations, aiming to create safer digital spaces by removing illegal content.

New Zealanders spending more time online than ever
Last week
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ai
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facebook
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digital engagement
A new study by InternetNZ reveals half of New Zealanders now spend four or more hours online daily, with significant usage noted among younger adults.

Microsoft exposes phishing scam targeting Booking.com hosts
This month
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malware
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phishing
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advanced persistent threat protection
Microsoft has revealed a phishing scam targeting hotel owners on Booking.com, warning the tourism sector of rising cyber threats and significant financial risks.

ExpressVPN partners with Booking.com for business safety
This month
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online safety
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subscriptions
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public wi-fi
ExpressVPN has teamed up with Booking.com for Business to enhance digital security for business travellers, offering 4 months free on a 12-month subscription.

Kaspersky blocks over 893 million phishing attempts in 2024
Last month
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malware
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cryptocurrency
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blockchain
In 2024, Kaspersky blocked over 893 million phishing attempts, a 26% rise from 2023, as cybercriminals exploited trusted brand names to deceive users.

Deepfakes & scams plague one-fifth of UK dating app users
Last month
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email security
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ai
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scams
A survey by Sumsub reveals that deepfakes pose a significant threat on UK dating apps, with 75% of users suspecting AI manipulation.

Facebook faces decline among UK's younger users
Last month
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data protection
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facebook
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instagram
Research shows Facebook's grip on young Brits is waning, with 70% of those aged 18-24 reducing their use, favouring platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Microsoft survey reveals online risks for Aussie teens
Last month
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genai
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ai
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microsoft
A Microsoft survey reveals that 64% of Australian teenagers faced online risks in 2024, with rising concerns over AI and digital safety among parents.

United Kingdom loses record GBP £306m to crypto scams in 2023
Last month
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cryptocurrency
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blockchain
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phishing
Cryptocurrency scams have surged in the UK, with victims losing GBP £306 million in 2023, prompting warnings for greater vigilance in the digital currency market.

Rise in online dating scams concerns in New Zealand
Last month
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physical security
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social media
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norton
A new Norton survey reveals alarming trends in online dating in New Zealand, with over half of users encountering scams on dating apps weekly.

Phishing campaign targets X accounts for crypto scams
Last month
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malware
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cryptocurrency
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blockchain
Researchers at SentinelLabs have uncovered an active phishing campaign targeting high-profile X accounts to hijack credentials for cryptocurrency scams.

Kaspersky warns of surge in Chinese New Year scams
Fri, 31st Jan 2025
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phishing
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email security
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cybersecurity
As Chinese New Year 2025 approaches, Kaspersky warns of a rise in fraudulent websites exploiting the festive spirit, enticing consumers with fake deals.

KnowBe4 shares data protection tips for 2025 privacy focus
Fri, 31st Jan 2025
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data protection
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encryption
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mfa
On Data Privacy Day, KnowBe4 offers vital tips for individuals and organisations to enhance data security and regain control over personal information.

Aussie kids' social media usage doubles, report reveals
Wed, 22nd Jan 2025
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gaming
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digital entertainment
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instagram
A new report reveals Australian children are spending more time on social media, with TikTok leading at 117 minutes daily, sparking safety concerns.

Netsafe & Sticks 'n Stones unite to fight bullying
Tue, 21st Jan 2025
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cyberbullying
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netsafe
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online safety
Netsafe and Sticks 'n Stones have formed a strategic partnership to combat bullying and improve digital wellbeing for young people across New Zealand.

Dotlines UK partners with Kenton for Audra Security UK
Tue, 14th Jan 2025
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advanced persistent threat protection
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soc
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cybersecurity
Dotlines UK has partnered with The Kenton Group to distribute Audra Security products, enhancing cybersecurity access for homes and small businesses across the UK.

Meta shifts to user-driven content moderation model
Thu, 9th Jan 2025
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facebook
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online safety
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politics
Mark Zuckerberg has unveiled Meta's new community-driven content moderation model, igniting controversy over its potential to worsen misinformation online.

Ransomware is doubling down — What you need to know about the recent surge
Tue, 7th Jan 2025
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malware
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data protection
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ransomware
Ransomware attacks have surged by 100% from Q2 to Q3/2024, with the Magniber variant leading the charge, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures.

Jamf predicts future trends in AI, education & security
Fri, 27th Dec 2024
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data protection
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cloud security
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mdm
Jamf executives highlight the urgent need for robust AI policies and online safety in education, as generative AI increasingly shapes technology use.