STAFF from both Burton Albion Football Club and Community Trust have received workplace training as part of a recent initiative to fight online fraud.
The cyber champions in the workplace training was launched in October, led by Deputy Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime Sue Arnold.
The free training gives Staffordshire businesses the chance to get cyber savvy and stay one step ahead of online fraudsters, with designated workplace champions.
Mrs Arnold said: "The impact cyber-crime can and does have on the economy is huge, both nationally and in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, so it’s vital businesses become as cyber-savvy as possible and beat online criminals at their own game.
"I'm delighted Burton Albion have grasped this opportunity and really embraced the chance to become more skilled and savvy about protecting themselves and their business online. Any other businesses wanting to do the same should get in touch with our office, so we can arrange this invaluable training for them."
The training, delivered by Digital Police Community Support Officer Matthew Hough-Clewes, explained to staff how fraudsters are increasingly targeting businesses large and small.
Last year, online fraud and cyber-crime was estimated to have cost the economy £27 billion a year with £5.8 million losses in Staffordshire in the past three months.
Cyber-crime is swiftly becoming the most damaging crime a victim can experience. Millions of pounds and reams of sensitive data are stolen every year and a lot of this can be prevented with some simple actions.
Fleur Robinson, Commercial Director, said: "It’s important that staff at both the football club and community trust take their responsibilities seriously and we are looking forward to rolling the information out to our wider workforce and community partners."
Matt Hancock, Head of Community, said: "It was a really eye-opening insight into the online world and was invaluable training.
"Our staff really seemed to take a lot from what they got to hear and we’re very surprised by some pretty worrying statistics, so we’re really grateful for the delivery of a fantastic workshop."
For more information about becoming a Cyber Champion in your workplace and sign up for future training sessions email: uwis.enquiries@wlv.ac.uk