- How can I stay safe from scams?
- What will the University never ask me to do?
- What should I do if I think my University account has been compromised?
- How can I protect myself from fraud?
- How do I report a Scam?
- Common scams targeting students and applicants
How can I stay safe from scams?
Scams targeting students are becoming increasingly common in the UK and internationally.
International students may be particularly vulnerable if they are unfamiliar with UK systems and processes.
Protecting your money and personal information is essential.
Always ask yourself: Could this be a scam?
If something does not feel right, take time to check before responding.
What will the University never ask me to do?
The University will never:
- Ask for your password
- Ask for your bank details through an email link
- Ask you to click a link to confirm personal information
If you need to check whether a message is genuine
- Visit the official University website directly
- Log in through the University's systems rather than an email link
- Contact the University using official contact details
If something feels suspicious, trust your instincts and verify it first.
What should I do if I think my University account has been compromised?
Contact the Helpdesk immediately if you think there has been a security breach involving:
- A University device
- Your University account
- A University system
Helpdesk (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- Telephone: +44 (0)1707 284678
- Email: helpdesk@herts.ac.uk
How can I protect myself from fraud?
Check who is contacting you
- Check email addresses carefully
- Use official University websites and services only
- If someone calls asking for personal or financial information, do not feel pressured to respond immediately
- Ask for their name and organisation, end the call, and contact the organisation using official contact details
- Be aware that scammers can copy genuine phone numbers to make a call appear legitimate
- Be cautious if someone pressures you to act quickly or threatens your finances, student status or visa status
- Never buy gift cards or share gift card codes if requested by someone claiming to represent an organisation
Make payments safely
- Pay tuition fees and accommodation fees using official University payment methods
- Never transfer money to private individuals, agents or third parties unless you have verified they are authorised
Protect your passwords
- Use strong, unique passwords
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever possible
- Never share your password with anyone
Be cautious of urgent requests
Scammers often:
- Create a sense of urgency
- Pressure you into making quick decisions
- Threaten consequences if you do not act immediately
Take time to check that any request is genuine before taking action.
Apply through official channels
- Apply directly through the University website
- Undergraduate applicants should apply through UCAS
- If you use an education agent, make sure they are authorised by the University
Check visa information carefully
- Use official UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) guidance only
- Be wary of anyone offering to fast-track your visa application for a fee
How do I report a Scam?
If you think you have been targeted by a scam:
- Inform the University
- Contact your bank immediately if money or banking details may be at risk
- Report the incident to Action Fraud
- Access University wellbeing support if you have been affected
Common scams targeting students
For more advice, see: