A new partnership has been launched to help fight cybercrime on the Isle of Man.

Police and HSBC have joined forces with Get Safe Online to raise awareness of the problem and help people avoid becoming victims.

Cybercrime has taken over from many forms of ‘traditional’ crime with individuals and businesses falling victim to fraud, abuse and other crimes either initiated or propagated online.

Nobody is immune, whatever their background, education, age group or location.

The aim of the two-year partnership is to help keep the public, business community and young people safe whilst on the internet.

Throughout the year a series of campaign initiatives will be launched, with the backing of some of the most authoritative and experienced names in cybercrime awareness and prevention – both locally and from the UK.

Andrew Cook, is the Digital Evidence Unit Manager with the Isle of Man Constabulary – he says: “More and more of our day to day activities involve the use of connected technology.

“Whether it's for communicating with friends, family and colleagues through social media and messaging applications, checking your online banking on the go or tracking your fitness progress there are many benefits to our online lifestyles.

“However there is a downside - Cybercrime.

“This is the use of the internet and/or technology to commit crime.

“The 'Get Safe Online' initiative is designed to inform people how to protect themselves online and to prevent themselves becoming victims of cybercrime.”