Basic Security - Rotherham

What is cuckooing?

Cuckooing is named after the nest-stealing practice of wild cuckoos.
It is a form of criminal exploitation where vulnerable people are conned, coerced, controlled, or intimidated into sharing, providing or offering up their accommodation to criminals, who then use it to base their criminal activity.
Such activity may include using the property:
• To deal, store or take drugs (this is the most common)
• As a place to sleep
• To store cash, weapons, valuables or other items (such as CCTV equipment)
• For sex work
• Perpetrators may also take over the property to financially abuse the tenant.

Further information can be found in this booklet

Here are some tips for keeping your mobile devices and computers secure:

Some common security threats for mobile devices include: malicious applications and websites, data leaks, spyware, and social engineering attacks

Make a note of your phones IMEI number: The police will ask for this if you report it lost or stolen and your network provider can use it to block the phone. Find the IMEI number by dialling *#06# (star, hash, zero, six, hash) from your device
Use strong passwords: Use a strong password, PIN, or biometric authentication like fingerprint or facial recognition. You can also use two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security.

Use security apps: Use security apps and a good antivirus.
Keep software up to date: Regularly update your software and antivirus software.
Download apps from trusted sources: Only download apps from trusted sources and review their permissions.
Avoid public networks: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks, which can be insecure.
Don't open suspicious attachments: Don't open suspicious attachments or click unusual links in messages.
Back up your data: Regularly back up your data to the cloud or a separate USB drive.
Enable remote lock: Enable remote lock and remote wiping of your phone.
Be aware of your surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and check that no one is looking over your shoulder or earwigging your conversations.
Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use: Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when you're not using them including NFC
Log out of sites after making a payment: Log out of sites after you make a payment.

What to do AFTER your phone is stolen:

The moments after your phone is stolen can be stressful and upsetting, but to make sure you and your data are most protected from theft, try to remain calm and follow these important steps:

Step 1: Login to your phone's tracking app to remotely block (or lock) your phone and

To do this, you'll need access to another device, which could be a friend's or relative's phone or computer. Use the links below to login to your phones tracking apps:

From there, you can see where your phone is or wipe it to make sure your apps and personal info are protected

Step 2: Report the theft to your mobile network provider

If you know your IMEI number, include this in your report as it can be used to block a device from the network

Step 3: Report the theft to the police by calling 101

The police advise that you do NOT call 999 unless your life is at risk. Instead, dial 101. If you know your IMEI number, include this in your report as it can be used to return a device to you if it's found.

Step 4: Call your bank(s), building society and report it, dial 159

Immediately report the incident to your bank(s) or building society, to prevent any fraudulent activity, Your bank will freeze your accounts to ensure that even cards in your digital wallet can’t be used by any thief.

Step 5: Change your passwords

For key accounts that you have apps for on your phone, such as your Apple Pay or Google Pay accounts, shopping apps (such as Amazon or grocery shops) and even things like Netflix and Disney+, it's important you change all of your passwords.

Step 6: Contact your insurance company

If you have mobile phone insurance, contact the insurer. If not, check if you're covered on home insurance. If you want to make a claim, you'll need your crime reference number.

Step 7: Be extra vigilant for scams after the theft

When thieves steal your phone, you can’t be certain of their intentions. If they access your data, they might use it to commit additional scams or impersonate your bank to extract more information from you.