PPDC Resources

Tracy from City & Hackney, shares her money-saving pearl of wisdom:

"Going incognito when you shop online can help you save money by automatically deleting your browser history when you close a tab. This means companies can’t track what you’re looking at and put prices up (yes, it happens!), so it will be especially useful for planning your next holiday or finding the best deal on your utility bills." Find out how you can browse in private on Microsoft Edge here, and Google Chrome here.   

Paromita shares one of her favourite tips:

Bookmarks are a useful reminder tool for websites you want to return to. You can use a bookmark to quickly access your council services, or a holiday deal you found which you want to come back to. You can add as many bookmarks as you want and remove them within a couple of clicks of your mouse. Bookmarking a page on a browser saves time and also helps you stay organised with your online activities.

How to save the website’s URL/location of the page on the internet.

To add bookmarks on your Google Chrome browser.

1. Open Chrome > click/tap more button (three vertical dots on top right hand corner)

2. Go to bookmark >select bookmark this tab

Shortcut buttons: Ctrl + D

Paromita shares some great info on Cookies:

When a website asks your permission to allow cookies, they are asking permission to store files on your computer, phone or tablet. These files will help the website recognize your device the next time you visit. Similar to when you go to the dry cleaners and get an ID. The ID will help them find your items when you collect your clothes.

Example: On an e-commerce website, you add some items to your shopping cart but don’t checkout, when you come back in a couple of days, the cart will still show the items you added. Cookies saved on your browser allowed this to happen.

Another example: On google search, allowing cookies means it will remember that you want to read the website in English or whatever language you chose.

What cookies cannot do. They cannot access any personally identifiable details from your computer –name, phone number, email address. They cannot access information stored in your folders/hard drives. Cookies cannot deliver additional files and viruses.

You will see cookie permission pop-ups when you first visit a website. These are called first-party cookies, where first-party is the website. Some cookies are necessary and you won’t have an option to refuse them. So, when they ask for permission, they are asking permission to store other types of cookies. Those are called third party cookies.

Third party or advertising cookies can read the file stored on your computer to show ads that match your interests, analytical cookies collect feedback -they will show the website how long you have been browsing, what pages of the website you visit, etc.

The Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) cover the use of cookies. ICO.org.uk is a useful resource to learn more cookies. Notice when you visit the website, there is no option to refuse necessary cookies while analytics cookies can be turned off.

Cyberbullying is when someone uses digital platforms, such as social media, messaging apps, or online forums, to send harmful, threatening, or embarrassing messages. This type of bullying can have serious consequences for mental health, leading to increased stress, anxiety, or feelings of isolation.

Examples of cyberbullying:

•    Sending repeated hurtful messages or comments
•    Spreading false rumours or sharing private information without your consent
•    Excluding someone from online groups or conversations
•    Mocking or making fun of someone’s appearance, health condition, or circumstances

The emotional impact of cyberbullying:

Cyberbullying can take a heavy toll on mental health, particularly for individuals who are already experiencing emotional difficulties. It can lead to:

•    Increased feelings of anxiety, depression, or loneliness
•    Self-esteem issues, especially when someone is repeatedly mocked or harassed online
•    Fear of using social media or digital communication tools, leading to isolation
 

Cybercrime refers to criminal activities carried out using the internet. Cybercriminals often target people by stealing their personal information, committing fraud, or hacking into their online accounts. For mental health patients, this can have a devastating impact, especially if sensitive health records or personal data are exposed.

Examples of cybercrime:

Phishing: fraudulent emails or messages designed to trick you into revealing sensitive information, like passwords or bank details.

Identity theft: stealing your personal details to impersonate you online, possibly leading to financial fraud.

Online scams: fraudsters tricking you into paying for services or products that don’t exist.

Hacking: gaining unauthorized access to your computer or online accounts.

Why cybercrime is a threat:

Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities and target individuals who may not be aware of the dangers. A successful cyberattack can result in:

•    Financial loss from stolen credit cards or fraudulent transactions
•    Emotional distress from dealing with the consequences of identity theft
•    Violation of privacy, especially if sensitive medical information is leaked or misused
 

While it’s impossible to prevent others from behaving badly online, there are ways to protect yourself from cyberbullying and minimise its impact.

Tips to stay safe from cyberbullying:

Don’t engage: If someone sends you hurtful or threatening messages, avoid responding. Block the person instead.

Use privacy settings: Make sure your social media profiles are private, so only people you trust can see your posts.

Report abuse: Most social media platforms have tools to report bullying or harmful behaviour. Use them!

Save evidence: If you’re being bullied, take screenshots of the messages or posts. This can be important if you need to report the incident to authorities or seek help.

Talk to someone: Don’t suffer in silence. Share your experience with a trusted friend, family member, or NHS healthcare provider.

Just as there are measures to protect against cyberbullying, there are also effective ways to protect yourself from cybercrime.

Tips for staying safe from cybercrime:

Create strong passwords: Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols for your passwords. Avoid using easily guessed information, like your birthday or pet’s name.

Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): This adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts, as you’ll need to verify your identity using a second method, like a text message code or Authentication App.

Be careful with links and emails: Don’t click on suspicious links or download attachments from emails you weren’t expecting, even if they look official.
Keep your devices updated: Make sure your smartphone, tablet, and computer have the latest security updates installed. These updates help fix vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit.

Use secure websites: When entering personal or financial information online, ensure the website address starts with “https” (not “http”). The “s” stands for secure.
 

If you’re ever targeted by a cyberbully or cybercriminal, the most important thing is to act quickly.

Steps to take if you are a victim of cyberbullying:

•    Block the bully: Most platforms allow you to block someone from contacting you.

•    Report the incident: Use the platform’s reporting tools to report the bullying behaviour.

•    Reach out for help: Speak to your NHS healthcare provider, a trusted person, or call a helpline for support.

Steps to take if you are a victim of cybercrime:

Change Your passwords: If your accounts are compromised, change your passwords immediately.

Report the crime: Contact the platform, your bank, or local authorities to report the crime.

Monitor Your accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements to spot any suspicious activity.

Seek support: If the crime has caused you emotional distress, don’t hesitate to speak to your NHS care team or a counsellor.

There are several resources available if you or someone you know is affected by cyberbullying or cybercrime. These services can offer advice, emotional support, and practical assistance.

For cyberbullying:

Childline offers help and advice for anyone being bullied online.

StopBullying.gov provides resources on how to deal with bullying, including cyberbullying.

For cybercrime:

Action Fraud is the UK’s national reporting center for fraud and cybercrime.

Get Safe Online provides information on how to protect yourself from online crime.

NHS Support: speak to your NHS care team if you’re concerned about online harassment or if your personal information has been compromised.