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What are student scams?

Student scams come in various forms, including: 

• Phishing emails pretending to be from trusted sources like your university, bank, or government agencies.
• Fake job offers or internships that ask for upfront payment for training or personal information.
• Scholarship scams that ask you to pay fees for applications or guarantee money in exchange for personal details.
• Housing scams where fake landlords try to trick you into sending deposits for properties that don’t exist.
• UK Visa / Home Office / Police / Bank scams Fake Police, Home Office or other 'officials' contact you and state there is a visa-related or similar problem and that they must transfer money/pay a fine or risk being deported. Other scams involve callers pretending to be the Police, demanding students pay taxes, or that there has been criminal activity in their bank account and must provide personal details to prove their innocence.

Why are students targeted? 

Scammers know that many students are adjusting to new financial responsibilities and are often looking for jobs, housing, and scholarships, whilst also starting or returning to their studies. This makes students more likely to overlook suspicious signs. 

How to keep your accounts secure  

1. Use strong, unique passwords and avoid reusing passwords
   For more information review IT Service’s password guidance.
2. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
   Passwords can often be stolen, guessed or hacked. By using MFA, if someone鈥痙oes get hold of your username and password, they can’t get into your account with them, because they don’t have your device to prove it’s you logging in.
3. Be cautious with unexpected emails, phone calls, texts and links
   Phishing emails and vishing calls are often unexpected, request immediate action or trigger an emotional response. Legitimate calls and emails should not cause you distress, you should always be given the opportunity to seek advice before responding to requests for information. A good rule of thumb is that unless you’re expecting an important call from an unidentified number, don’t answer. Legitimate callers who need to reach you will leave a message. For further information review IT Service’s guidance on how to spot a phishing email.
4. Secure your devices
   Make sure your phone, laptop, and other devices are protected with a password, passcode or biometric lock. Always keep your devices up to date with the latest security patches. Be aware of how you could either lock or disable your personal devices if they were lost or stolen.
5. Beware of fake QR codes
   Scammers may drop flyers containing amazing offers or stick fake QR codes over legitimate ones to redirect people to malicious websites, install malware, or capture their credit or debit card details.  Avoid using a QR code if it looks like it might have been tampered with, or it is connected to an offer that looks unbelievably great.

What to do if you think you’ve been scammed 

If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, take these steps immediately:

1. Change your passwords on any accounts that may have been compromised
2. Report the scam to IT Services, your bank, credit card company, and the police via
3. Monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity
4. Access further advice and support from:
   • Student Services 
   • (advice@lboro.ac.uk)  
   •  

Stay safe and stay informed 

University life is exciting, and you shouldn’t have to worry about being scammed. By taking some simple precautions, you can keep your accounts secure and focus on enjoying your studies. 

Remember, if something feels too good to be true, it probably is. Always be cautious with your information and trust your instincts! 

The information on this page was published to the University News page on 2 Oct 2024.