PEOPLE in Inverclyde are being urged to stay safe online as internet usage increases during the pandemic.

An estimated £190,000 is lost each day in the UK through cyber crime, with criminals exploiting increased activity online.

Councillor Stephen McCabe said: “The internet has been great for keeping us all connected during the past year while we’ve had to stay apart, whether that’s for meetings, schooling, help and advice or keeping in touch with family and friends.

“Sadly, the huge surge in the number of people online presents opportunities for criminals to prey on those who are perhaps less savvy about the dangers of the internet or new to the digital world.

“Even the most technologically astute among us are not immune from cyber crime.

“That’s why it’s important that we all remain vigilant online and don’t fall victim to the many despicable and often very sophisticated scams out there."

The warning follows Cyber Scotland Week, which aimed to ensure people are aware of risks and stay secure online.