Last updated: September 2, 2025
Back to School, Back to Basics: Cybersecurity Checklist for Students
As you dive back into the academic year, remember that your online safety is just as important as your academic success. Cybercriminals are always on the lookout for unsuspecting victims, and students are often prime targets.
Here's your cybersecurity checklist to stay safe online:
- Generic Greetings: Be wary of emails or messages with generic greetings like "Dear Customer" or "Valued Student." Legitimate UBC communications will always address you by name.
- Suspicious Senders: Pay close attention to the sender's email address. Phishing emails often mimic official addresses but have slight variations or misspellings.
- Hover Before You Click: Hover over any links before clicking to see the full web address. If it looks suspicious, don't click!
Lock Down Your Digital Life
- Strong, Unique Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts, including social media and banking.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enable MFA wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a one-time code, usually sent to your phone, in addition to your password.
Protect Your Devices
- Anti-Malware: Install and keep your anti-malware software updated.
- Operating System and Browser Updates: Ensure you're running the latest version of your operating system and web browsers to benefit from the latest security updates.
What to Do If You've Been Phished
- Change Your Passwords: Immediately change the passwords for any accounts you think might have been compromised.
- Contact Your Financial Institution: Report any unauthorized transactions if you've shared financial information.
- Report the Incident: Contact the appropriate authorities, such as the RCMP and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- Scan for Malware: Use anti-malware software to check your device for any malicious software that might have been installed.