Introduction to Online Safety
Welcome to CampusConnect! While our platform is designed to help you connect with fellow
students and alumni in a trusted environment, it is important to practice good online
safety habits. This guide will help you navigate our platform safely and protect yourself
from potential risks.
CampusConnect uses college email verification to maintain a trusted community, but
additional precautions are always recommended when interacting online. By following
these guidelines, you can make the most of your experience while staying safe.
Our Commitment to You
CampusConnect employs advanced security measures, content moderation, and
community guidelines to create a safe space. However, your awareness and
proactive safety measures are essential partners in this effort.
Protecting Your Account
Your account is your gateway to CampusConnect. Keeping it secure prevents unauthorized
access and protects your personal information and interactions.
Creating Strong Passwords
Use Unique Passwords
Never reuse passwords from other accounts. If one service is compromised, your CampusConnect account stays safe.
Make It Complex
Use at least 12 characters with a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters.
Use a Password Manager
Tools like 1Password or Bitwarden help you create and store strong, unique passwords securely.
Update Regularly
Change your password every few months, especially if you suspect any suspicious activity.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form
of verification beyond your password.
- Enable 2FA in your account settings under Security
- Use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy for the best security
- Save your backup codes in a secure location in case you lose access to your device
- Never share your 2FA codes with anyone, including people claiming to be from CampusConnect
Recognizing Phishing Attempts
Beware of Phishing
CampusConnect will never ask for your password via email or direct message.
Be suspicious of any message asking for login credentials or personal information.
- Check email sender addresses carefully - official emails come from @campusconnect.edu
- Look for spelling errors and unusual formatting in suspicious messages
- Hover over links before clicking to verify they lead to legitimate CampusConnect URLs
- When in doubt, navigate directly to CampusConnect by typing the URL in your browser
Safe Connections
Building connections is at the heart of CampusConnect. Here is how to do it safely
while making meaningful relationships with fellow students and alumni.
Verifying Identities
- Check profile verification badges - verified users have confirmed their college email
- Look at their profile completeness, including photo, bio, and activity history
- Check mutual connections - do you share friends or group memberships?
- Be cautious of brand-new profiles with minimal information or activity
- Trust your instincts - if something feels off, it probably is
Meeting Safely in Person
When transitioning from online to in-person meetings, whether for study groups,
mentorship, or social events, prioritize your safety.
Meet in Public Places
Choose well-lit, populated locations like campus cafes, libraries, or student centers for first meetings.
Tell Someone
Always let a friend or family member know where you are going, who you are meeting, and when to expect you back.
Arrange Your Own Transport
Drive yourself or use public transportation. Avoid accepting rides from people you have just met.
Keep Your Phone Charged
Ensure your phone is fully charged and you have a way to contact someone if needed.
Pro Tip: Video Call First
Consider having a video call before meeting in person. It helps verify the
person is who they claim to be and builds comfort before meeting face-to-face.
Marketplace Safety
Our marketplace helps students buy and sell items within the trusted campus community.
Follow these guidelines for safe and successful transactions.
Safe Transaction Practices
- Meet in public, well-lit areas on campus for exchanges - many campuses have designated safe zones
- Inspect items thoroughly before completing payment
- Use secure payment methods - avoid wire transfers or gift cards
- Keep all communications within the CampusConnect platform for your protection
- Get a receipt or written confirmation of the transaction
- Trust the platform's built-in transaction features when available
Avoiding Scams
Common Scam Warning Signs
Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, requests for unusual payment
methods, or pressure to complete transactions quickly without proper verification.
Research Fair Prices
Check market value for items. Extremely low prices are often red flags for scams or stolen goods.
Secure Payments Only
Use traceable payment methods. Avoid cash apps that do not offer buyer protection when possible.
Verify Seller History
Check the seller's reviews, account age, and transaction history before making purchases.
Never Send Payment Upfront
Avoid sending money before receiving and inspecting the item, especially for high-value purchases.
Privacy Tips
Controlling your personal information helps protect your identity and maintain
boundaries in your digital life.
Managing Your Profile Privacy
- Review your privacy settings regularly in Account Settings
- Choose what information is visible to the public vs. only connections
- Be selective about sharing personal details like your address or phone number
- Use the platform's messaging system instead of sharing personal contact info early
Information You Should Protect
Home Address
Never share your exact home address publicly. Use campus locations for meetups instead.
Class Schedule
Avoid posting your complete schedule, which could allow someone to track your movements.
Financial Information
Never share bank details, student ID numbers, or social security information.
Sensitive Photos
Be mindful of background details in photos that could reveal your location or routine.
Social Media Cross-Linking
While connecting your other social media accounts can help verify your identity,
be aware that it may expose additional personal information. Consider what each
linked account reveals about you.
Recognizing Red Flags
Being able to identify warning signs early can help protect you from scams,
harassment, and potentially dangerous situations.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Requests for money or financial help - Legitimate connections will not ask you for money, loans, or gift cards, especially early in your interaction.
Pressure to move off-platform - Be cautious if someone insists on communicating through personal email or phone immediately.
Inconsistent stories or information - If details about their major, graduation year, or background keep changing, this is a red flag.
Refusing video calls or in-person meetings - Always having excuses to avoid face-to-face interaction could indicate deception.
Excessive flattery or love bombing - Unusually intense attention early on can be a manipulation tactic.
Asking for personal information quickly - Someone who pushes for your address, schedule, or private details too soon.
Threats or aggressive behavior - Any form of intimidation, threats, or aggressive messaging is unacceptable.
Too-good-to-be-true offers - Amazing job opportunities, free items, or deals that seem unrealistic often are.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels wrong, it probably is. Do not ignore your gut feelings.
It is always better to be cautious than to put yourself at risk.
Reporting & Getting Help
CampusConnect has robust reporting systems to help maintain a safe community.
Here is how to report issues and get the help you need.
How to Report
- Report a User: Click the three dots on their profile and select "Report User"
- Report a Post: Use the flag icon on any post to report inappropriate content
- Report a Listing: Click "Report" on any marketplace listing that violates guidelines
- Report a Message: Long-press on any message to access the report option
What Happens When You Report
All reports are reviewed by our Trust & Safety team within 24 hours. Depending on
the severity, actions may include warnings, content removal, temporary suspension,
or permanent bans. Serious violations may be reported to campus security or
law enforcement.
Block Users
You can immediately block any user from your profile or their messages. They will not be able to contact you or see your profile.
Document Everything
Take screenshots of concerning interactions. This helps our team investigate and can be useful if further action is needed.
Contact Our Safety Team
For urgent safety concerns or to speak directly with our Trust & Safety team:
- Email: safety@campusconnect.edu
- In-app: Settings > Help > Contact Safety Team
- Response time: Within 24 hours for standard reports, within 4 hours for urgent matters
Emergency Resources
If you are in immediate danger or experiencing an emergency, please contact
the appropriate authorities immediately. Your safety is the top priority.
Emergency Services
For immediate danger or life-threatening emergencies
911
Campus Security
For on-campus safety concerns and incidents
Contact Your Campus
Crisis Text Line
Free 24/7 support for those in crisis
Text HOME to 741741
National Suicide Prevention
24/7 free and confidential support
988
RAINN Hotline
National Sexual Assault Hotline
1-800-656-4673
Domestic Violence Hotline
24/7 support for domestic violence
1-800-799-7233
Immediate Danger
If you are in immediate physical danger, leave the situation if safe to do so
and call 911. Your personal safety always comes first.
Campus Resources
Most colleges and universities offer additional safety resources. Consider reaching out to:
- Campus Counseling Center - for mental health support and guidance
- Student Health Services - for medical concerns and wellness resources
- Dean of Students Office - for academic and personal support
- Title IX Office - for reporting discrimination and sexual misconduct
- Campus Police or Security - for safety escorts and incident reports