Online Safety Guide for Students
Navigating the digital world safely is essential for today's students. Learn how to protect your personal information, avoid common scams, and create healthy digital habits.
Protecting Your Digital Identity
Create Strong, Unique Passwords
Use a different password for each important account (university portal, email, banking). Make passwords long (12+ characters) with a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols (!@#$%^&*). Avoid common words or personal info. Consider a password manager to help create and store them securely.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA/MFA)
Add an extra security layer using 2FA (also called Multi-Factor Authentication). This usually involves your password plus a code sent to your phone or generated by an app. Enable it on all accounts that offer it, especially email and banking.
Be Careful What You Share Online
Think twice before posting personal details like your full address, phone number, date of birth, or student ID number online, even on 'private' profiles. Review your social media privacy settings regularly.
Avoiding Scams and Phishing
Be Skeptical of "Too Good to Be True" Offers
Offers of free high-value items, unexpected prizes, or urgent requests for money or information are often scams. Be wary of messages creating urgency or pressure. If unsure, ignore it or verify through a separate, trusted channel.
Verify Email Senders & Links
Phishing emails try to trick you into revealing information. Check the sender's address carefully (is it slightly misspelled?). Hover over links (don't click!) to see the actual destination URL. Never enter login details or financial info via an email link.
Watch Out for University-Specific Scams
Scammers may pose as the university, student loan company, or tax authorities. They might request payments or personal details. Your university will *never* ask for your password via email. Verify official communications through the university website or known contact numbers.
Social Media Safety
Review Privacy Settings Regularly
Platforms change settings often. Check who can see your posts, photos, and personal information. Limit sharing to "Friends" or specific groups rather than "Public" where possible.
Be Cautious with Friend Requests & DMs
Only connect with people you know and trust. Be wary of messages from strangers asking for information or money, or containing suspicious links.
Think Before You Post (Digital Footprint)
What you post online can stay there forever and form your "digital footprint". Consider how posts might be perceived by future employers, university staff, or others. Avoid posting sensitive personal details or anything illegal or offensive.
Public Wi-Fi & Device Security
Use Caution on Public Wi-Fi
Public networks (cafes, libraries, airports) are often unsecured, meaning others could potentially intercept your data. Avoid logging into sensitive accounts (banking, email) on public Wi-Fi. Use a reputable VPN (Virtual Private Network) for added security if you must use public networks.
Keep Your Devices & Software Updated
Updates often contain crucial security patches. Enable automatic updates for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS), web browser, and other applications to protect against known vulnerabilities.
Be Careful What You Download & Install
Only download software and files from trusted sources (official app stores, reputable websites). Be wary of attachments or downloads from unknown emails. Use antivirus software and keep it updated.
Digital Wellbeing
Set Boundaries for Tech Use
Constant notifications and screen time can impact focus and sleep. Set limits on your usage, create tech-free times (like during meals or before bed), and turn off non-essential notifications.
Know How to Handle Online Harassment
If you encounter cyberbullying or harassment: don't engage, document the evidence (screenshots), block the person, and report them to the platform. Seek support from friends, family, or university wellbeing services if needed.
Practice Digital Critical Thinking
Question the information you see online. Is the source credible? Is there evidence? Is it designed to provoke an emotional reaction? Be aware of misinformation and fake news. Check facts before sharing.
Test Your Knowledge
Take this quick quiz to check your understanding of online safety:
1. Which of the following is the strongest password?
Correct! A strong password contains a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. It should also be at least 12 characters long and not contain easily guessable information.
Incorrect. The strongest password is "k8J$p2@L7mNq" because it contains a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols, making it much harder to crack.
Helpful Resources
Here are some trusted resources for learning more about online safety in the UK:
National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)
UK government organisation providing clear, practical advice on protecting your accounts, devices, and data.
Visit NCSC Advice →Get Safe Online
UK-based resource offering practical advice on protecting yourself against online fraud, identity theft, viruses, and more.
Visit Get Safe Online →Action Fraud
The UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. Report scams and find prevention advice.
Visit Action Fraud →