Smartening up on cyber security

Nearly everyone who took part in a nation-wide quiz during Connect Smart Week say they understand the need for a strong password.

In fact 97 per cent of the people who tried the "How Cyber Smart Are You?" quiz understand what a strong password is.

And in other positive results, 99 per cent know the importance of updating software and installing security patches. Participants also know to use public Wi-Fi only for browsing news sites - not for sensitive documents or financial information.

The quiz is part of Connect Smart Week last week and was one of a suite of resources released during the week to help individuals and workplaces to stay secure online.

Paul Ash, director of the National Cyber Policy Office, said close to 3700 people took the quiz and while results were positive he said there was still room for improvement.

"Ransomware was also among the top three questions people answered incorrectly, which is a concern given we are increasingly seeing businesses held 'ransom' by cyber attackers who lock down an organisation's data until a fee is paid," Mr Ash said.

Only around 70 per cent know the definition of ransomware, and fewer still are familiar with two-factor authentication. A lowly 25 per cent are unable to identify the indicators of a secure website.

The focus of this third Connect Smart Week was cyber security in the workplace. During the week, organisations across the country ran campaigns to help employees protect themselves online and prevent cyber incidents.

Mr Ash said the good news is that help is available with a range of resources for individuals and businesses on the Connect Smart website - www.ConnectSmart.govt.nz.

"Cyber security is a 24/7 issue. It's important that organisations and employees remain focused on staying secure online all year round," he said.

"It isn't complicated. A few basic steps can mean your personal information or your work information is more secure," he said.