How can students protect themselves from online scams?

Using two-factor authentication is an effective way for students to protect themselves from online scams. This security measure adds an additional layer of protection beyond just a username and password. Even if a scammer were to obtain a user’s password, they would still need access to the second form of authentication, which is often a code sent to the user’s mobile device or generated by an authentication app. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to accounts, making it much harder for scammers to compromise personal data.

In contrast, the other choices do not provide adequate protection against online scams. Reporting every email received can be cumbersome and may not address the real threats or scams. Sharing passwords with friends undermines the security of personal accounts, as it increases the chances of credentials being misused or leaked. Clicking on links in unsolicited messages is one of the most common ways that scams are executed, as these links can lead to phishing sites, malware downloads, or other malicious activities. Therefore, two-factor authentication is a proactive measure that enhances online security.