Online safeguarding

Advice on keeping universities and their students and staff safe from online harms, from cyberattacks to social media trolling. Here, you will find expert insights on establishing appropriate "netiquette" for online learning, understanding the risks of social media and AI tools, data protection, privacy and cybersecurity practices to prevent against phishing or ransomware attacks.

By Eliza.Compton, 26 October, 2023

Dealing with abuse after public commentary

Communicating to the public can result in abuse of academics. Here, University of Southampton staff describe their experiences and provide tips on anticipating and dealing with trolling

By Eliza.Compton, 15 September, 2023

Five ways universities can protect faculty from online harassment

With more online engagement and interaction have come increased threats and attacks against faculty, staff and students. Here are measures institutions can take to raise awareness and provide support

Reading time

4minutes

By dene.mullen, 14 March, 2023

Rather than waiting to be told, here’s how to do something about online harms

How to help students and staff with online harms

Emma Bond and Andy Phippen outline what institutions can do to better support their students (and staff) when tackling online harms

Reading time

4minutes

By dene.mullen, 23 May, 2022

Despite positive steps, much remains to be done on sexual misconduct

Sexual misconduct is still a big problem in universities

A year on from the OfS’ statement of expectations, it’s time to implement effective, evidence-based approaches to address harassment and sexual violence

Reading time

4minutes

By dene.mullen, 10 May, 2022

Tips and apps to encourage better interaction with students

Classting and Remind are two lesser-known apps that can aid communication with your class when used effectively

Reading time

3minutes

By Miranda Prynne, 3 May, 2022

Digital citizenship: creating safe and inclusive online learning spaces

An image representing good conduct online

Digital citizenship, or the ability to use and connect via technology responsibly, is now a vital life skill that educators must foster among students. Vicki Madden explains how to start by creating respectful online environments

Reading time

3minutes

By Eliza.Compton, 22 April, 2022

Balancing student data collection and privacy protection

Increased scrutiny of universities as keepers of valuable data means institutions need to be well versed in data protection responsibilities. Andy Phippen offers key aspects to consider

Reading time

5minutes

By Miranda Prynne, 21 April, 2022

How to prepare and protect your institution against a future cybersecurity attack

Image representing a cyber security attack to illustrate advice on how to mitigate such risks

It’s not a matter of if your institution will be hit by a cyberattack but when. Adrian Ellison shares some key actions for universities to better prepare for the inevitable

Reading time

4minutes

By Eliza.Compton, 13 April, 2022

Supporting cybersecurity literacy for workforce-ready graduates

Employers need a cybersecurity-literate workforce, and higher education could play a valuable role in filling the gap

Reading time

4minutes

By dene.mullen, 29 March, 2022

Students aren’t giving up social media, so teach them how to question it

Fake news and bias can infect social media feeds, so university teachers need to educate students on how to read their platforms critically

Whatever our own opinions on social media, we must educate our students about locating bias and reading their preferred platforms critically, says Stone Meredith

Reading time

4minutes

Online safeguarding