We’ve been made aware of a scam targeting international students, particularly students from China. Please find details of the scam and what to do if you or someone you know has been targeted below.
The scammer(s) may call using WhatsApp, informing the student that they are from the Chinese government and that someone has used their identity to attend a hospital in China. They may then go on to say that they owe money due to the stay in hospital. On the call, they may make themselves seem genuine and use language that sounds official. They may already seem to know personal details such as name or address. Please be aware, these are NOT genuine calls, emails or text messages.
If you receive an unexpected call or are asked to do this from someone who claims to be an official, it may be a scam.
What to do if you receive a call, email, WhatsApp or text message from someone who says they are a police officer or a government official:
- Never give any personal or bank details out over the phone to someone you do not know.
- Hang up immediately if you are not expecting a call.
- Do not respond to any emails or Whatsapp/text messages requesting bank details.
Students who are targeted should contact Action Fraud by calling Tel: +44 (0) 30 0123 2040
If you have any concerns or have been targeted, please contact the Student Services Centre by emailing: [email protected].
