How to Spot a Fake Event

Sadly, every year unofficial ‘Freshers’ events pop up across social media. People pretend to be UEA and create fake events to take your money. Unofficial events are not necessarily legal, safe, exclusively for students or even real!

You need to know exactly how to spot a fake event if you see one so you can protect your pennies and your personal data, and join the brilliant official events instead.

How to spot a fake Welcome event:

• Does it refer to ‘Freshers’ or ‘Freshers’ Week’? If so, it’s not an official Welcome event. UEA and uea(su) don't use the terminology 'Freshers'

• Are they trying to panic you into buying tickets? Such as ‘almost sold out!’... If so, it could be fake

• Does the event have a specific time and location? If not, it could be fake

• Is the event hosted by UEA or uea(su)? If not, it isn’t an official Welcome event

If you’re unsure, don’t buy tickets unless the event has been verified by UEA or uea(su) – you could end up paying for nothing! – just get in touch at union.info@uea.ac.ukopens in a new window or events@uea.ac.ukopens in a new window.

Does the event feature either the UEA or uea(su) logo? If it doesn’t, it’s not an event affiliated with the University. Official events will always feature university branding.