The FBI’s Springfield, IL office is marking Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October by directing attention to the ever-increasing number of internet crimes and cyberattacks.
The FBI’s Springfield Office Special Agent in Charge David Nanz said, “At a time when artificial intelligence is ripe for abuse and criminals attempt to exploit the technology, the FBI continues to be the lead federal agency responsible for investigating cyberattacks. And as threats change, the FBI changes with them. ”
The FBI has cyber personnel in all 56 field offices throughout the United States, responding to intrusions that not only affect U.S. critical infrastructure and big-name corporations, but also small businesses, schools, and local government services. They offer several tips for the public to remain safe from hackers, including: not opening any email attachment or clicking links unless you are expecting the file, being suspicious of requests for secrecy or pressure to take action quickly, keeping systems and software up to date and installing a strong, reputable anti-virus program, and being cautious about information you share in online profiles and social media accounts.
Illinois ranks 5th in the country for the most internet crime victims and 7th in total victim losses at nearly $267 million, according to the Internet Crime Complaint Center’s 2022 Internet Crime Report. For more information regarding cybersecurity you can visit the the FBI’s cyber page and scams and safety precautions link.