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Staying safe online

    With more of us turning to the internet for learning, shopping and socialising, it’s important to keep safe online.

    A girl walking along with headphones in, looking at her phone on the City campus

    Unfortunately, many cyber criminals and scammers are using COVID-19 as a cover story to try and steal students’ money or personal information, both online and offline. Often, these scammers will pose as legitimate organisations such as banks, the police or the university.

    If you suspect an online scam or anything suspicious, then report it to the Digital Technologies Service Desk, including attachments or links you've clicked on.

    Here are some other useful links to help you:

    Here are some of the most popular scams to look out for

    Top tips for spotting a scam

    • Read emails carefully before acting. Phishing emails may contain grammatical errors or an urgent request- take time to consider the email content before deciding whether to respond or act.
    • Beware of links and attachments. Hover over any links before clicking on them to check they’re legitimate. If the link looks suspicious or different to what the sender describes, it could be fraudulent and should not be clicked.
    • Never reply to emails asking for passwords, pins or other account details.
    • The university will never email or phone you asking for account details. Any email that asks you for bank details will probably be fraudulent.
    • Verify the source. Always remember to check the sender’s email address when you receive an email and when you reply. Scammers can spoof the ‘From’ email address to make it look like someone you know but when you reply, the email address may change.
    • Report anything suspicious to the Digital Technologies Service Desk , including attachments or links you've clicked on.

    Still need help?

    +44 (0)115 941 8418