The Freshman 5 (Security Tips)
Remember the Freshman 15, as in weight gained by new college students encountering unlimited meal plans? Well, we’re proposing the Freshman 5—as in security tips students should start their lives with. Feel free to share!
1 Lock up your devices. Whether you’re heading to class, the library, or a bash, always lock your laptop and phone. A few seconds of inattention can lead to a stolen device—and with it, your coursework, personal data, and access to your accounts.
2 Don’t share your password. Not with your roommate, not with your best friend, not even with your significant other. Passwords are like toothbrushes: personal, not to be shared, and should be changed regularly. Use a password manager to keep things secure and easy to manage.
3 Don’t trust AI to do your schoolwork. AI tools can be helpful for brainstorming or organizing ideas, but relying on them to write your papers or complete assignments can violate academic integrity policies. As to the security angle, AI-generated content can be inaccurate or easily detected by plagiarism checkers—and is used to “train” other AI programs.
4 Learn and follow your school’s security regulations. Every school has its own IT policies. Take time to read them. They’ll tell you what’s allowed, what’s not, and how to report suspicious activity. Knowing the rules can help you avoid accidental violations and keep your data safe.
5 Keep physical security in mind. Digital safety is important, but don’t forget the basics: lock your dorm room, don’t leave your backpack unattended, and be cautious about who’s around when you’re entering passwords or accessing sensitive information.
One way teens can keep their money safe is to use a StartStrong Checking account and use Online Banking to keep tabs on it. Lose your debit card? You can lock it in the app with Card Manager. Need to figure out a budget? Gain insights into your personal finances with Money Compass. Find out more about what you can get from our StartStrong teen accounts on our website today.
