Financial scam targeting international students
Friday 26 August 2022
We are aware of a sophisticated financial scam targeting international students. This type of scam is similar to the ones we've seen in past years at ANU and other Australian and international universities.
The scammers target international students mainly, posing as government officials, requiring that they transfer large sums of money with threats of deportation and imprisonment if they fail to cooperate.
Scammers are highly active in Australia. In 2021, Australians lost hundreds of millions of dollars to scammers, who are now more prominent and sophisticated than ever.
International university students may be disproportionately targeted by scammers. Recently, there have been several high-profile scam events targeting university students, including those at ANU.
It's important to stay up to date with common scamming techniques and prevention strategies, so that you remain informed and protected.
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The best way to protect yourself is through awareness and education.
The Australian Government's Scamwatch website provides tips you can follow to protect yourself from scams.
Importantly, if you ever receive a call from someone making threats about arrest or deportation, it is a scam. Do not send them any money. Instead, hang up the phone immediately and report the call. Never give your personal, credit card or online account details over the phone.
Useful resources
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Information from Scamwatch on Chinese authority scams
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The Scamwatch little black book of scams (also available in simplified Chinese)
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Follow @scamwatch_gov on Twitter
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Subscribe to Scamwatch radar email alerts
If you think you have been targeted in a scam, ANU is here to support you and you are not alone.
If you need support or advice, reach out to the Student Safety and Wellbeing Team.
How to report scams to the authorities
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Report it to ACT Policing in the first instance. Students can make a report in person at the police station or by calling 131 444.
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Report the scam to ScamWatch.
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Reach out to Student Safety and Wellbeing Team who can provide support.
If you think the scammer has your bank account details, contact your bank or financial institution as soon as possible.
It is important for you to be aware and vigilant in identifying potential scams on yourself or others.
Even if you are not an international student, we urge you to keep an eye out for your friends who may be targeted by these scams.
Please share this information about scam awareness to your friends and peers and help us get the word out to our students community.
Support
For information on support services at ANU, visit the health, safety & wellbeing website or reach out to our Student Safety & Wellbeing team.
Contact
Page owner: Wellbeing
