Did you know that university students are frequent targets for online scams? From yearbook offer emails, personalised hoodie offers to phishing emails posing as your student loan provider, scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick people. Don't let them fool you! Online safety, also known as cyber safety, refers to being aware of potential threats while engaging in digital activities and taking steps to protect personal data and well-being.
SCAM ALERT! Did you know that university students are frequent targets for online scams? From yearbook offer emails, personalised hoodie offers to phishing emails posing as your student loan provider, scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick people. Don't let them fool you!
Tuesday 11th February was Safer Internet Day, an international initiative that started in 2004 as part of the EU SafeBorders project and was later adopted by the Insafe Network in 2005. The event now raises awareness worldwide about online safety and each year focuses on a key theme.
For 2025 the theme is, “Too Good to be true? Protecting yourself and others from scams online.” This highlights the growing issue of online scams, personal experiences and strategies to combat them.
We are here to share key facts, risks, and best practices for staying safe online – particularly for university students who are frequently target by online scams.
What is Online Safety?
Online safety, also known as cyber safety, refers to being aware of potential threats while engaging in digital activities and taking steps to protect personal data and well-being.
Common Online risks for University Students
Have you encountered any of these risks before?
- Phishing & Smishing – Fraudulent emails or texts aiming to steal personal details
- Scams & Fraud – Fake job offers, loans scams, ticket fraud
- Stalking & Harassment – Online bullying, persisted unwanted contact
- Threats & Abuse – Cyber bullying, blackmail or intimidation
- Hate speech & Inappropriate Content – Violent, offensive material/conversations
- Sextortion & Online impersonation – Coercion into sharing explicit content, fraudulent identities
- AI deepfakes – manipulated images, videos or audio designed to deceive you
How scammers operate & how to stay safe
Phishing & Smishing: How malicious actors trick you
Phishing (via email) and smishing (via text) are common fraud tactics where scammers pose as trusted organisations, such as universities, student loan services, or banks, to steal information. NCSE guidance on phishing attacks can be found here.
How to protect yourself
- Always check the sender’s email address for typos or suspicious domains.
- Never click on suspicious links; instead, go to the official website manually.
- Be wary of urgent messages demanding immediate action.
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your university and banking accounts.
AI Deepfakes: Recognising fake media
Deepfakes are AI-generated videos, audio clips, or images that appear real. These can be used for misinformation, impersonation, or fraud.
How to spot them
- Watch for unnatural facial movements or mismatched audio.
- Cross-check media with official sources.
- If an image or video looks suspicious, reverse search it online to verify its authenticity.
Top Tips for Staying Safe Online
Quick Check: Are you cyber-safe?
- Think Before You Trust – Not everyone online is who they claim to be.
- Keep Personal Info Private – Adjust social media privacy settings and avoid oversharing.
- Use Strong Passwords & MFA – Follow NCSC guidance by using three random words for passwords and enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added security.
- Use a strong, separate password for your email account.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Transactions – Use a VPN when necessary.
- Be Cautious with Links & Attachments – Verify before clicking, even from known contacts.
- Never Send Money or Personal Details to Strangers – Scammers often impersonate real organisations.
- Report Suspicious Activity – Report this to BNU’s IT service desk by emailing IT@bnu.ac.uk.
- Stay Alert on Dating Apps – Meet in public places and inform a friend before meeting someone new.
What to Do If You’re Targeted by Scammers
Even with precautions, scams can happen. If you experience a scam, take action immediately.
- Stop engaging with the scammer – Do not respond or provide further information.
- Secure your accounts – Change passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.
- Gather evidence – Take screenshots, save emails, and note key details.
- Report the scam through one of the following:
- University IT Support (for phishing emails or security breaches)
- Online Dating Association (for dating scams)
- CrimeStoppers or Police (101/999) (if threats or abuse are involved)
- Action Fraud (UK, except Scotland) (for financial scams)
- National Cyber Security Centre (for broader cyber threats)
- Victim Support (if you need emotional or legal assistance)
Further Support & Resources
- Find more about Safer Internet Day 2025 here.
- Explore SWGfL e- safety resources for university students here.
- National Cyber Security Centre tips for staying safe online here.