Student security....don't worry, you've got this under control!
A weekend discussion with your parents/guardians/carers.
If your guardians have been working themselves into a frenzy in advance of your imminent departure to Oxford University, they may have done some research on the internet. They may have even found the guidance from ‘Get Safe On-Line’ here: https://www.getsafeonline.org
You are used to having all the answers, give this a 10 minute read just to confirm that you still have all the answers: (and follow us on Twitter for regular advice - OX_IS)
Looking after money
You are likely to see great offers from banks in Oxford for your business, make sure that you follow the security advice that they give.
Two key points:
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Don’t transfer money in response to email demands of any sort; it is more than likely fraud. If you get one of these, report them to us.
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Consider choosing a bank based on their security performance. See our news bulletin from last week on banks rated for their technical security provision.
Protect your reputation
What happens in Oxford, doesn’t stay in Oxford if it goes online. Check that images you are posting do not contain metadata which include your location. Check out our guidance and advice on keeping your mobile devices scure here.
Protect your Identity
In your first few days you’ll be filling in forms a plenty and passing out lots of information, make a note when you have done this. We will support clubs, colleges and departments with protecting your information.
Be aware of the risk of identity theft and be cautious about how, and to whom, you transmit identity information. Check out our advice and guidance on keeping yourslf safe online here.
Your Responsibility
Be cautious on tone and content, even private message groups or short lived postings can have screenshots taken and shared out of context. Never be pressured to join in the trend of a discussion if you feel uncomfortable. These may be subject to deliberate manipulation by someone else.
If you feel uncomfortable, say no. Don't fall for a need to share intimate pictures, engage in harmful pranking, extreme content or any kind of radicalisation. The University has a dedicated equality and diversity team who can support you, please check out this link for useful information and guidance and you can always report anything to us, we are here to help.
Fraud awareness
Some communications can appear credible, containing previously stolen information or even coming from a legitimate but compromised account. If uncertain, do not respond. There is never a valid incentive to answer something now, especially with identity information or in response to demands for payments. Report this to Infosec here and we will investigate.
Online dating
Use a reputable app and don't overshare personal information. These are great for mal actors to conduct social engineering.
Devices and Wi-Fi
Check out our security advice here.
Money making schemes / scams
Student life can be expensive. Don't fall for a scheme that could result in you being involved in criminality or association with improper activity.
Keep coding legal
Good coders sometimes get drawn to the dark-side. You might even be approached to sell services on the dark-web. Don't limit your career potential with a criminal conviction. Come and talk to us.
Some content from getsafeonline.org