- Why do cyber criminals target students?
- Keep your passwords safe
- Keep your device, software and apps up to date
- Don't use illegitimate websites to access free content
- Manage your online profile
- Stay alert when you're stressed or in a hurry
- Protect your money, data and identity from scammers
- How to report a scam or cyber attack
Why do cybercriminals target students?
- They know you may be new, busy or stressed.
- They use current news or events to make messages look real.
- They try to gain your trust and steal personal information.
Stay alert
- If something feels suspicious, stop and report it.
- Scammers can be very convincing, so don’t rely on always spotting them.
ℹ️ If something goes wrong - Report it quickly — fast action can reduce the impact. See Cybercrime reporting and support .
Protect yourself
- Use your digital security tools correctly.
- Stay aware of common warning signs.
- Staying aware helps protect your money, data and identity.
Keep your passwords safe
- Your password protects your privacy and your digital life.
- Use passwords that are easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess. Avoid birthdays or simple words.
- Guidance for setting up your university password
- A passphrase (a short sentence or group of words) is stronger and easier to remember.
- Never share your passwords with anyone.
- Use different passwords for different accounts.
- The University will never ask for your password — if someone does, it’s a scam.
- Lock your screen when you leave your device.
- Change default passwords on devices like routers, modems and smart devices.
If you think your password has been compromised
- Change it immediately at pss.herts.ac.uk
- Report the issue to your account provider.
- Watch for unusual activity on your accounts.
⚠️Contact the Library and Computing Services Helpdesk:
- Phone: +44 (0)1707 284678 (24/7)
- Email: helpdesk@herts.ac.uk
ℹ️Find out more fraudulent emails, spam and phising attacks.
Keep your device, software, and apps up to date
Keep your devices secure
- Update your devices operating system (OS) and apps regularly - updates fix security problems and protect you from new cyber threats.
- Do not use devices that are no longer supported by the manufacturer when connecting to UH systems.
Protect your internet connection
- Use eduroam to secure your WIFI when on campus.
- Be careful with free public Wi‑Fi — it’s often unsafe.
Use security tools
- Install anti-virus, anti-spyware and a firewall
- Turn on two‑step authentication (2FA/Multi-Factor Authorisation ) for all accounts — it’s usually free when using an app.
- You can also use a hardware security key, but check compatibility first.
MFA is required for your UH account
- Your University login must use Mult-Factor Authentication (MFA).
- You can manage your MFA settings and devices through your student account.
Don’t use illegitimate websites to access ‘free’ content
⚠️ Be careful with “free” streaming or download websites
- Many “free” sites for movies, music or academic downloads are illegitimate.
- These sites are unsafe and may secretly steal your login details — and even affect others using the same Wi‑Fi.
Legal and academic risks
- Using these sites can break copyright laws, which is illegal.
- Using them for study materials can also break University academic integrity rules.
Safer options
We understand that costs are rising, but please avoid these unsafe websites.
You can safely access all University e‑books and journals through the Online Library in StudyNet.
If you can’t find what you need, Library and Computing Services can help.
If you’re worried about money, support is available
- Herts SU (Students' Union) – friendly advice and guidance
- Student Funding & Financial Support Team - financial-support@herts.ac.uk or phone +44 01707 284800
- University Financial Assistance Fund (UFAF) – help for students in financial difficulty
ℹ️Find out more about assessment offences and academic misconduct
Manage your online profile
- Social media can be a great way to connect and stay in touch with friends and family, and connect with employers, but can be pieced together and misused by cybercriminals.
- Check who you are sharing your information with and how much you are sharing
ℹ️Find out more about how to protect your money, data and identity from scammers
Stay alert when you’re stressed or in a hurry
- Start of the new academic year - emails from UCAS, Student Loans Company, visa information, University communications, sorting out your accommodation, messages from Student Union, and emails from your school of study. There is a lot to do and a lot of information! See our advice on how to spot a scam email, text, message or call.
- Black Friday - If a sale is too good to be true – it probably is. Be wary of ‘click now to get this deal’' offers
- Holiday season - this time of year brings a rise in scams.
- Tempting vacations and cheap flights? Plenty of phishing opportunities here, unfortunately.
- Bargain event and party tickets? Are they what they seem? Who is selling them and how are you paying them?
- Exam season - you may be tired, stressed, and time-poor – but don’t let your guard down when it comes to online safety.
- Money mules - what are they and could you be a victim?
How to report a scam or cyber-attack
⚠️ Don’t be embarrassed to report a scam
- Scammers are clever, and anyone can be targeted.
- Reporting a scam helps stop them and protects other people.
ℹ️If your University account may be compromised
Contact the Helpdesk immediately:
- Phone: +44 (0)1707 284678
- Email: helpdesk@herts.ac.uk
Where to get help
- Hertfordshire Students Union Advice and Support Centre – guidance and support
- Victim Support – help if you’ve experienced cybercrime
- Report fraud - (National Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Centre)
- Citizens Advice – free, confidential advice
If you feel upset or stressed
- Cyber‑attacks can leave you feeling vulnerable, angry or anxious.
- Support is available through Student Wellbeing and the Student Wellbeing 24-hour helpline.
ℹ️Find out more about cybercrime reporting and support