🛡️ Stay Safe Online at the University of Worcester

Welcome to the University of Worcester! 

As you begin your studies, it’s important to know how to protect yourself, your personal information, and University systems from cyber threats. 

Cyber criminals often target students because they are new to university processes and may not yet recognise common online scams. By following the simple guidance below, you can help keep yourself and the wider University community safe. 

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🚨 Think Before You Click 

Phishing Emails and Scams 

Phishing attacks are fraudulent emails, text messages, websites, or social media messages designed to steal your passwords, personal information, or money. 

Be cautious if a message: 

🔴 Creates a sense of urgency or panic 
🔴 Asks for passwords, bank details, or personal information 
🔴 Contains unexpected attachments or links 
🔴 Promises prizes, refunds, discounts, or jobs that seem too good to be true 
🔴 Appears to come from university staff but contains unusual wording or requests 

✅ Before clicking any link: 

• Hover over it to see where it really leads. 

• Verify the sender’s email address. 

• If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. 

💡 When in doubt, don’t click. 

👉 Contact the IT Service Desk (here) for advice.

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🔐 Protect Your University Account 

Your university account provides access to important services and personal information. 

Keep it secure by: 

✅ Using a strong, unique password 

✅ Never sharing your password with anyone 

✅ Never writing your password down 

✅ Using Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) whenever available 

✅ Signing out of shared or public devices when finished 

✅ Reporting unexpected login prompts immediately 

🟦 Remember: University staff will never ask you for your password. 

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☁️ Store Your Data in Approved Locations 

To protect your coursework and University information, always use approved University storage services: 

Approved Services 

✅ Microsoft OneDrive 

✅ Microsoft Teams 

✅ SharePoint 

✅ Other University-approved systems 

Do Not Use 

❌ Personal Google Drive 

❌ Dropbox 

❌ Personal iCloud 

❌ Other unapproved cloud storage platforms 

🟢 Approved services provide security, backup, and recovery features that help protect your work. 

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📱 Be Careful What You Share Online 

Social media is a great way to connect with others, but oversharing can make you a target. 

Avoid posting: 

🚫 Your Student ID number 

🚫 Personal addresses or phone numbers 

🚫 Timetables showing your regular locations 

🚫 Screenshots containing personal or University information 

🚫 Details about University systems or security measures 

🚫 Information that could help someone impersonate you 

⚠️ Once information is shared online, it can often be copied and remain available even after you delete it. 

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💻 Keep Your Devices Secure 

Whether you use a laptop, tablet, or smartphone: 

✅ Install updates when prompted 

✅ Use antivirus software where available 

✅ Lock your device when unattended 

✅ Only download software from trusted sources 

✅ Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi 

✅ Never leave devices unattended in public places 

✅ Report suspicious activity immediately 

🟦 A few simple security habits can prevent major problems later. 

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🚩 Report Anything Suspicious 

Remember, should: 

• You receive a suspicious email 

• Your account behaves unexpectedly 

• You think you’ve clicked a malicious link 

• You have any cyber security concerns 

Report it immediately 

The sooner we know, the sooner we can help protect you and the wider University community. 

👉 Contact the IT Service Desk (here) to report this.

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🤝 We’re Here to Help 

Cyber security is everyone’s responsibility, and every student plays an important part in keeping our university safe. 

Thank you for helping protect yourself, your fellow students, and University systems. 

We wish you every success in your studies and look forward to supporting you throughout your time with us. 

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