It’s European Cybersecurity Month: think security, act smart

With the increasing risk of cyberattacks in society as a whole, we all need to protect our online data and ensure our digital security. You need to protect sensitive information contained in the documents and records that you deal with, for example. You should also be careful about how and when you send emails and click on links, and think about how you use your computer and phone.

The EU’s annual campaign European Cybersecurity Month is now underway. The aim is to raise awareness of information and IT security. The campaign in Sweden is called “Think security” (“Tänk säkert”), and it’s coordinated by the Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) and the Swedish Police. The Swedish Tax Agency is one of several government agencies and organisations taking part.

Be safer on the internet

The theme of this year’s Swedish campaign is “Be safer on the internet” (“Säkrare på nätet”). One way to increase online security is to reduce the risk of your digital data ending up in the wrong hands.

Peter Burgos, IT security specialist at the Swedish Tax Agency, says:

“As we become more aware of, and cautious about, common phishing emails, fraudsters come up with new ways to target their attacks. AI-generated emails can look extremely professional, so almost anyone could be fooled.”

In the Swedish Tax Agency’s operations, we make sure that all employees learn about digital signatures and encryption when emailing information of a more sensitive nature. This is to ensure that information such as personal data doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.

As a private individual, it’s vital for you to treat emails and text messages with caution. If you receive an email or text message that appears to be from the Swedish Tax Agency, but which you suspect is fraudulent, do not respond to it – and do not click on links, scan QR codes or open attachments in the message. Never disclose details such as bank account or credit card numbers. The Swedish Tax Agency will never send you an email or text message asking for your bank account details. We only request such details through our e-services, which you have to log in to using your eID.

“Think security, act smart!” says Peter Burgos.

“Don’t make things easy for attackers.”