Cybersecurity

Think Securely at UTS

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• Signing in

• Handling data

  Create, share and move data securely

  You’ll be creating and handling a lot of data when you study at UTS. It’s important to know how to save and share this, so that your course notes, assessments and research are secure.

  Smart steps

  Take some time to learn about the UTS approved apps and tools you have access to. These tools are protected by UTS cybersecurity controls, and we’ve checked that your data is kept secure. 
  Back up important files so you can recover quickly if something goes wrong. At UTS, save your data in OneDrive and SharePoint so that you know it’s saved and backed up.
  Share the minimum necessary: oversharing makes your data less secure. If you’re sharing to collaborate, just share with the people that need access, and remove access once the collaboration is complete.

  Learn more

  The ThinkSecurely SharePoint site has more cybersecurity tips and guidance.

  Australian Government: tips for backing up your data (for personal data). 

   

• Using your phone or laptop

  Up to date devices are secure devices

  The software updates that pop up on your laptop, phone or tablet include important security updates that fix known security problems, and keep the hackers away from your data, money and accounts. 

  Smart Steps

  • Update your operating system, apps and browser regularly; enable automatic updates. If you’re short on storage, clear out some downloads or photos so that the updates can install. 
  • Make sure your anti-virus software is running – many devices have it built in.
  • Make sure you have screen locks; and don’t leave devices unattended in public spaces. 

  Learn more

  • ThinkSecurely: Keeping device software up to date
  • Australian Government: Securing your devices

• Replying to messages

  Spot phishing and impersonation

  Cyber criminals send emails, messages, and make calls to trick you into signing in to fake websites, making payments, or sharing your account details. 

  Smart steps

  • Pause: urgent language, threats (“act now or…”) or unexpected attachments/links are red flags.
  • Ask a friend: if you’ve received a message that you’re not sure about, show it to a friend or classmate. Two minds can be better than one!
  • Check the sender: look for odd domains, misspellings or a mismatch with the organisation’s official address.
  • Is it a message that you’re expecting? An unexpected message with a great offer, or threatening language, is a red flag.
  • Verify independently: if a message claims to be from a government agency, bank or even a great shopping deal, don’t click links — contact the organisation via its official website, app or phone number to make sure the message is genuine. 

  If something seems phishy

  Don’t reply, don’t click. Use the ‘Report Phishing’ button in Microsoft Outlook so that the message can be investigated by the Cybersecurity team.  

  If you don’t have the Report Phishing button on your device, you can forward the email through to spam@uts.edu.au.

  Learn more

  • ScamWatch has lots of information about spotting scams, protecting yourself, and what to do if you, or someone you know is scammed. 
  • If you are concerned about any scams related to your UTS account, or any UTS devices, report them immediately through the  IT Support Centre Team through ServiceConnect or by calling +61 2 9154 2222.

   

• Being online

  When online be scam smart and protect your privacy

  Keeping your personal information and digital life secure can be challenging. These tips can help you avoid some common scams and online traps.

  Smart steps

  • Lock down privacy settings on social media platforms and avoid oversharing personal information like your location, travel plans, or photos of ID cards or travel documents.
  • Be sceptical of “too good to be true” offers (like scholarships, discounts, or housing). Never pay application fees or disclose banking details to unknown parties.
  • Use official UTS channels for fees, forms and logins — the university will not ask for payments or password updates via links in unsolicited messages.
  • When shopping online, watch out for fake shopping sites: when you see a great deal on social media, search for it in your browser and make sure you’re shopping on the real website.
  • Check if you have been involved in a databreach. HaveIBeenPwned is a free website where you can check for any data breaches involving your email address. 

  Learn more

  • NSW Government: Cybersecurity and Scam Information for Students
  • The eSafety Commissioner provides practical online safety resources for young people and students
  • UTS Tips for what to do following a data breach
     

• Travelling

  When travelling secure your tech before, during and after trip

  Before you go

  • Back up your data, leave nonessential devices at home, and enable MFA for your online accounts.
  • Update and encrypt devices; set strong lock PINs/passphrases; consider disabling biometrics in countries where you may be compelled to unlock by fingerprint/face.
  • Check for current travel advice for your destination on Smart Traveller 

  On the road

  • Avoid public WiFi for sensitive tasks: use your mobile hotspot or trusted networks.
  • Keep devices with you; don’t plug into unknown chargers or shared PCs.

  When you’re back

  • Change key passwords, review account activity, and update security software.

  Learn more

  ThinkSecurely has more information about secure travel.

  Please note this information is for UTS students. UTS staff need to follow travel procedures available on the Staff Intranet.