Some criminals are specifically targetting international students, telephoning them and pretending to be from a legitimate organisation (such as the UK Home Office, an education agent or even UKCISA). They demand money (calling it a “fine” for a non-existent immigration problem), and claim that if you do not pay them quickly, there will be damaging consequences (for example, deportation or cancelling your visa). These are scammers. The UK government authorities would never ask for money or fines to be paid this way.
These criminals, and others, are now using the current global pandemic situation to exploit people’s fear. Please be aware and even more careful when you receive any suspicious communications – postal, telephone, electronic, especially those asking for money for fines, penalties, surcharges or even charity! Whenever you receive communication from someone who you do not know, remember that it could be a scam. Criminals use all kinds of ways to trick you into paying them money, or giving them valuable information about yourself.
Since the start of the coronavirus outbreak in the UK, intelligence analysts have monitored a rapid escalation in criminals gangs using a range of scams. The National Cyber Security Centre has issued this advisory – it is important that you read and understand it carefully, to be fully aware and protect yourself from being scammed by these fraudsters.
For more information, please see the Frauds, Tricks and Scams webpage at Gov.uk.
If you think you might be a victim of fraud, you can report it to Action Fraud at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/reporting-fraud-and-cyber-crime or by calling 0300 123 2040.
In case you have any concerns and would like to speak to an adviser, we are available on Skype (@ SHUISST) Monday to Friday 11am-12pm and 2-4pm. Just send us a message with your student number and we will call you back – no need to book!
International Experience Team