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🛜 Staying Safe Online

Your guide to staying safe in digital spaces as you explore university options

Amy Gray avatar
Written by Amy Gray
Updated this week

Whether you're chatting with student ambassadors, researching courses, or joining university group chats, the internet is a brilliant tool for making informed decisions about your future. But just like in real life, it's important to stay aware and protect yourself online.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe and confident while you're preparing for uni life.


🔐 1. Protect Your Personal Info

Only share personal details—like your full name, phone number, or location—on trusted websites or platforms. If you’re using a university platform like Unibuddy, your data is secure and only used for the purposes you’ve agreed to.

Avoid sharing:

  • Your home address

  • Personal passwords

  • Banking or payment information

  • Sensitive documents (e.g. passport scans or visa confirmations)


💬 2. Be Mindful of Who You’re Talking To

When you chat with student ambassadors on platforms like Unibuddy, you’re speaking to real, verified university students. But on social media or unofficial forums, anyone can claim to be a student.

Watch out for:

  • People asking you for personal information too quickly

  • Pressure to click unfamiliar links

  • Messages that feel pushy, salesy, or off-topic

If something feels off, trust your gut - and don’t be afraid to end the conversation.


🔗 3. Use Official University Platforms

When researching universities or courses, stick to official websites and platforms provided by the university. These will have the most accurate information and the best security. Unibuddy, UCAS, and university .ac.uk websites are great places to start.


🔒 4. Use Strong Passwords (and Keep Them Private!)

Choose a strong, unique password for each platform you sign up to. Avoid using your name, birthday, or anything easy to guess.

Top tips:

  • Use at least 12 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols

  • Don’t share your passwords - even with friends


📵 5. Think Before You Share

Social media can be a fun way to connect with other students, but remember that what you post can stick around. Avoid sharing anything online that you wouldn’t be comfortable with a tutor, future employer, or family member seeing.


🚩 6. Watch for Scams and Fake Offers

Be cautious of messages offering scholarships, part-time jobs, gig tickets, or "student discounts" that sound too good to be true - especially if they ask for money or personal details upfront. Universities and trusted student platforms like Unibuddy will never ask you for money or passwords in a private message.


🧍‍♂️ 7. Look Out for Each Other

If you see something suspicious online - or if a friend shares something concerning - check in with them and let someone know. Your university, school, or college will have a safeguarding or support team you can talk to.


🤝 We’re Here to Help

If you’re using Unibuddy and something doesn’t feel right, or you’re unsure whether a message or profile is genuine, please report it via the Unibuddy app or within your Community. This report will go straight through to the administrator at the university you are connecting with. We're all here to keep this space positive, helpful, and safe for you.


✅ Remember:

  • Stick to trusted platforms like Unibuddy

  • Keep personal info private

  • Ask questions, but stay alert

  • Trust your instincts - if it feels wrong, it probably is


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