Student guide to fraud prevention

• Stay safe from scams
• Important the university will never ...
• Report it immediately
• How to protect yourself
• Report a scam

Stay safe from scams

There has been a rise in scams targeting university students in the UK and internationally.

International students may be more at risk if they are unfamiliar with UK systems.

Protecting your money and personal information is essential.

👉 Always ask yourself: Could this be a scam?

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Important: the university will never...

• Ask for your password.
• Ask for your bank details by email link.
• Ask you to click a link to “confirm” personal details.

If you need to check something:

• Go directly to the official University website.
• Log in through the main system (never through an email link).

ℹ️If something feels wrong, trust your instincts.

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Report it immediately

If you suspect a security breach on:

• A University device
• Your University account
• A University system

⚠️If your university login details or accounts have been compromised, or you think they may have been, contact the Helpdesk immediately. Telephone +44 (0)1707 284678 (available 24/7) or email  helpdesk@herts.ac.uk

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✅ How to Protect Yourself

1️⃣ Check the Source

• Verify email addresses carefully.
• Only use official University websites.

2️⃣ Make safe payments

• Pay tuition and accommodation using official University payment methods.
• Never transfer money to individuals, agents, or third parties.

3️⃣ Protect your passwords

• Use strong, unique passwords.
• Enable  multi-factor authentication where possible.

4️⃣ Be careful with urgent requests

Scammers often:

• Create pressure
• Ask for quick decisions
• Threaten consequences

ℹ️Take your time. Check first.

5️⃣ Apply through official channels

• Apply directly through the University website.
• For undergraduate applications, use UCAS. 
• If using an agent, make sure they are officially authorised by the University.

6️⃣ Check visa information carefully

• Only use official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI guidance.
• Be cautious of anyone offering to “fast-track” your visa for a fee.

📢 Report a Scam

If you think you’ve been targeted:

• Inform the University.
• Contact your bank immediately.
• Report to Action Fraud (UK’s national fraud reporting centre).
• University wellbeing support.

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Common scams targeting students

• Common cyber scams targeting students
• Stay safe - latest scams targeting students

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