Cyber security

You can beat a scam message if you:

• Check that it's genuine - Call the sender on a trusted number, not one from an email or text.
• Click with care - If you're not sure, don't reply and delete it. And don't click on a link or attachment.
• Look for spelling mistakes - Check for messy layout and how they spell things.
• Take your time - Scams use warnings, threats of fraud or problems with your account to get you to act without thinking.

Please forward any scam emails to our security team at spamreport@essex.ac.uk

The University will never ask you to share account details like your password.

You can beat scam calls if you:

• Take your time - Don't rush into a quick decision for a caller.
• Download with care - Unless you called for help, never download anything to your device for a phone call.
• Sign in safely - Unless you called for help, don't sign in to your device for a phone call.
• Be screen safe - Never tell a random caller what's on your computer screen.

• Lock your device - Use a PIN or password to stop others from using it.
• Download with care - Only download files and programs you know are genuine that come from a trusted source.
• Be wifi wise - Choose a strong password only you know for your router or hub. And only use genuine, secure wifi in public places.
• Install updates as soon as one is available - Updates often include security features and patches to help keep your device secure.

You can help protect your accounts if you:

• Create strong passwords - Put three random words together, the longer the better, and add numbers or special characters.
• Have more than one password - Use a different, strong password for each of your accounts.
• Avoid personal details - If an account asks you to set a password or security questions, don't use personal details.
• Use two-factor (multifactor) authentication - So even if someone has your password they won't be able to sign in.